Saint Valmiki saw through the whole affair and he said, “Oh descendant of Raghu, the Great! I am the tenth son of Varuna, the Water-god. I have never told a lie. I tell you on oath that Sita is a true and chaste wife. Lav and Kush are your sons from her. You sent her to the forest for fear of defame. I have meditated for thousands of years. I profess that God may render all my meditation fruitless if my assertion about Sita is wrong.”

In order to reassure Rama of Sita’s fidelity, Saint Valmiki said to Sita, “My daughter! You are really great. You have never thought of any other person than Ram, your husband. Your conduct is immaculate. Sin has never passed by you even. You have always considered your husband to be your God. I have learnt this through my divine power. So, advise you to accompany your husband, Rama, to Ayodhya and lead a happy family life. This is not only my desire but my blessing as well.”

Hearing the saint’s words, Sita was tempted to go to Ayodhya but Rama’s silence over this point jerked her and she was compelled to change her mind.

In response to the saint’s suggestion, Rama said, “Your words have left no doubt in my mind about Sita’s immaculate chastity. Nay, I had already been convinced of it as a result of the ordeal that she underwent earlier. But later on, an ill-rumor ran apace and I was compelled to leave her in the forest through my brother Lakshmana. I would request you, O revered Saint, to pardon me for this wrong.

Then sending for Lakshmana, Rama said, “Brother! Persuade Sita to accompany us to Ayodhya along with our sons. This is another great job to be accomplished by you.”

So, Lakshmana approached Sita and spoke with folded hands, “Be kind enough to forget everything and accompany us to Ayodhya.” But Sita did not agree to do so.

Compelled by all, Sita agreed to accompany them up to the bank of the Saryu where she stopped short and implored the Mother Earth, “Oh Mother Earth! All the ten directions will stand evidence to the fact that I have never thought of anyone except my husband, Ram. If this is true, O Mother! Accept me in your lap. If I have always longed for my own spouse only, give me shelter in yourself. Simply cause a crack in yourself so that I may get into your lap.”

Hearing the profession, the directions began to tremble. Lightening flashed and clouds thundered violently. It looked as if deluge was going to occur.

All of a sudden, there developed a crack in the earth and a divine light came to be emitted out of it. In no time, the goddess of the Earth came out of the crack. The divine light was coming out of the halo of the goddess who took Sita in her lap and gradually slipped into the crack.

Seeing all this, the people of Ayodhya, present there, began to bewail bitterly. All the three brothers – Bharata, Lakshmana and Shatrughna were in tears. All present there spoke in one voice, “Splendid, O Sita! This earth is yet to produce an ideal lady like you.” As for Rama, he was dumb-founded to see his dear wife going into the lap of the earth. He kept gazing at her for a long time.

Sita’s sons – Lav and Kush – were very upset at what had happened. Rama could not tolerate it and a stream of tears came out of his eyes. He stood agape for a long time and then addressing the Mother Earth, he said, “Oh Mother! Return me my Sita or take me also into your lap. I cannot live without her any more now. Her company is essential for me even if I had to live in hell. Comply with my request otherwise I shall disfigure your face destroying all the forests and mountains with my arrows. I shall not hesitate to carry out rash destruction of everything – nay to cause even the deluge to occur.”

Suddenly a divine voice was heard to say, “Shed all sorrow, O Rama! Sita is always with you. Through the power earned through meditation, she has reached heaven – your eternal place. You will see her there only now”.

Hearing the divine words, Rama got some peace of mind. Then he sent for Lakshmana and said, “I am proceeding to Ayodhya along with my two sons – Lav and Kush – so that I may complete the yajna properly. You should come along with all the people.” Saying so, Rama set out for Ayodhya accompanied by his two sons.

Next day, Lakshmana too set out for the capital along with his two brothers, all the Vanara dignitaries and all the soldiers. Everyone was mourning Sita’s disappearance from the scene.

Saint Valmiki, seeing all them in sorrow, sermonized them hard saying, “What is to be, must be. It is useless to repent of what has occurred.”

Rama, having reached Ayodhya with his sons, completed the yajna in the proper manner as suggested by the rulers, kings, saints and hermits present there. Then he saw off all the royal invitees with valuable gifts. All the Brahmanas and saints were given liberal donations. They, in turn, showered blessing on him and his sons.

Then Rama came to his palace with his sons, though all the time he was thinking of his beloved wife Sita.

The people of Ayodhya rejoiced the advent of the two princes profusely. The merriment went of for a number of days.

The completion of the yajna made Rama a powerful emperor. He ruled as an ideal emperor according to the tenets prescribed in the religious books. God too felt pleased at the manner in which the things went on. Rains occurred well in time and crops flourished well. No epidemic or famine was ever heard of. Untimely dearth’s were just absent and people lived in peace and prosperity.

One day Rama happened to look into a mirror. The very sight of his face rendered him averse to worldly life. He thought of leaving the worlds and returning to her permanent abode in Heaven.

So, Rama gave the rulership of different parts of his empire to Lav, Kush and the sons of his brothers.

Lord Vishnu, who had embodied himself as Rama, sent for Saint Narada and said, “Oh Narada! My job on earth had been completed. I, as Rama, will live no more. So, send the god of Death to me.”

In no time, Narada can back accompanied by the god of Death. Paying his respects to the Lord, the god took his seat.

The Lord, then, said to the god, “Rama’s life on Earth has finished. So, bring him back to heaven at once.

Hearing this, the god of Death set out to bring Rama.

God of Death had promised to obey Lord Vishnu. But on the way he thought over the matter with a cool mind and found himself in a fix. He said to himself, “How shall I tell an ideal person like Rama that his days on the Earth are no more now and that he has to leave this world.”

The very next moment, the god of Death was reminded of the natural law that one who takes birth must die one day. So, he made for Ayodhya single handed. Reaching near the town he transformed himself as a Brahman and entered the town.

Reaching the royal palace, he saw that Lakshmana was standing at the gate of Rama’s palace. He asked Lakshmana to go and inform Rama of his arrival.

Knowing that Death-god has come, Rama ran to the gate of his palace to welcome him. Then he showed him in most respectfully.

Getting inside, Rama offered him a seat and then folding his hands said, “What can I do for you, sir?”

The Death-god, who was in the guise of a Brahman, said, “Rama! I am not a Brahman in reality but god of Death in person. I have been sent by Lord Vishnu and so I want to talk to you in loneliness – nobody except you and me should be present there. If anyone hears our talk, he will dies on the spot. Not only, even if Vishnu or Brahma or Mahesh does this mistake, he won’t go unpunished.”

“Don’t worry, sir. I shall ask Lakshmana to guard the door himself. He wont allow anyone to come in.” Saying so, Rama left the room.

Smiling in his sleeves at he words of Death-god, Rama went to Lakshmana and said, “Brother! I am going to talk over some very important matter with the Brahman who has just arrived. You must guard the door in person. Never let anyone come in without my permission. If you violate this instruction, you will be guilty of disobeying me and will earn an instant death as a reward for this guilt.

Bowing low, Lakshmana promised to obey and stood quite alert at the door of the room where talks were going to be held. But he said to himself, “Today my brother’s mood is quite off, it seems.”

Rama closed the door of the room from inside leaving Lakshmana to stand guard outside.

But what is to be must be. Nobody can change it in any way or at any time. Just then Saint Durvasa turned up. Seeing him, Lakshmana bowed low before him and earned a blessing from him. The saint said, “Lakshmana! Where is your brother, Rama? I want to see him just now without even a moment’s delay. Inform him of my arrival.”

“Excuse me, O revered saint; my brother is having talks over a very serious and important matter at this time. He has ordered me not to let anybody go inside. So, I cannot go inside the room to inform him. You had better wait for some time,” Lakshmana replied very humbly.

The saint flew into a rage and said, “Lakshmana! Let me go in failing which I shall annihilate you, your town and your kingdom even.”

The saint’ words made Lakshmana tremble all over because he was well conversant with Saint Durvasa’s wrath. Still he could not ignore his duty. Assuming a serious tome, he said, “I am bound by my elder brother’s order. So, I can’t allow you to go in without his permission.”

“It seems your days are numbered. That is why you have taken courage to violate my order. I curse you that you will die here and now to reach heaven.” Saying so, saint Durvasa advanced further towards the room where Rama was holding talks.

Reaching the door, Saint Durvasa knocked at it and Rama came to open it. Seeing Durvasa before him, Rama was surprised to the back-bone. Greeting him most respectfully, he offered him a seat. Then he fed the saint with sumptuous food and asked him most humbly, “Excuse me, sir for asking how you came in. Did Lakshmana not prevent you at the door?”

“He did prevent me. But I uttered a curse on him so that he should reach heaven instantly.”

“You haven’t done good, O Saint. You have done a big sin. Nobody can prevent what is to happen. So, you please leave this place at once. You had better not to disclose what is going on here,” said Rama.

Hearing the words of Rama, Durvasa could not take courage to stay there any more.

Hearing the curse of Saint Durvase, Lakshmana said to himself, “It is better that I should die single-handed. Why should I make others die.”

Rama expelled Lakshmana also for violating his order. Lakshmana, who had laughed away the saint’s curse, could not tolerate this punishment. Tears streamed down from his eyes. He left Ayodhya without even visiting his palace.

Reaching the bank of the Saryu Lakshmana offered oblations and assumed a watery grave. God Indra came down and took him away in a skyey vehicle. Lakshmana’s death plunged his three brothers in sorrow. They kept looking at the vehicle that took away Lakshmana to the heaven.

Rama turned totally against the worldly life after the death of Lakshmana. So, in invited Saint Vasishtha and summoned all his nobles and courtiers and said, “I want to give my throne to my dear brother Bharata and leave very Ayodhya. So, preparations be made for the coronation of Bharata. Time is very short as I am to go the Lakshmana way.”

Bharata felt very upset to hear Rama’s words. With folded hands, he requested him, “Brother! I have no craving for the throne. I am not ready to accept even heaven in your absence. I must go with you. Be kind enough to allow me to do that.

Then Rama sent his messenger to summon Shatrughna and said, “Go to Shatrughna and inform him or our last journey.”

Hearing Rama’s order, the messenger rushed to Shatrughna and returned with him in no time. Shatrughna touched the feet of his brothers and them said in an insisting voice, “Brother! I have coronated both my sons and I have made up my mind to accompany you. I beseech you not to refuse me your company. Living without you here will amount to a stiff punishment for me. I request you not to let come a moment when I feel forced to disobey you.”

Seeing his brother adamant, Rama permitted him also to accompany him. Then he sent for Hanuman and said, “Dear! You have made up your mind to lie very long. So, you must live happily here keeping me in your mind. That is my suggestion.” Saying so, Rama made for the Saryu along with his two brothers.

People of Ayodhya too came to the Saryu River along with their ruler – Rama. The river was in spate at that time.

Rama stood at the bank and invoked Lord Shiva. Then he began to advance into the river water followed by both his brothers – Bharata and Shatrughna. Just then a divine voice said.

“It is so good that you are returning to your eternal abode, O Rama along with your godly brothers. You are welcome along with them in what ever form you wish to come here.”

Hearing the divine call, Rama smiled and assumed a watery grave along with his two brothers. The people of Ayodhya began to bewail bitterly.

As for Hanuman, he became immortal as a result of Rama’s blessing and the boon. He visits a new Rama temple on the earth every day and remembers his Lord- Rama.

The great poet Tulsi Das saw Hanuman in a temple in the form of a leper. The Ramayana – story of Rama – is no less than a Veda. Its study and meditation gives one a long life full of luck and prosperity. It does away with the past misdeeds and all desires are fulfilled. The issueless get children and have-nots roll in wealth. The condition is only a concentrated meditation of his great holy book.

One who recites the holy saga of Lord Rama with unflinching devotion, gets rid of all worldly worries. Its study, whether in the morning, at noon or in the evening – keeps one safe from all ills and sorrows.

THE END

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

Shatrughna told the twins all about the yajna and the horse. Hearing this, Lav said to him, “If you are afraid of a battle with us, leave this horse with us and return to your capital.”

Lav’s words enraged Shatrughna and he raised his bow and arrows to chastise both the brothers.

But before he could do anything, the twins showered arrows on his chariot and broke it.

Seeing his chariot broken Shatrughna felt even more enraged and he began to shoot arrows on Lav and Kush. He ordered his soldiers to join the fight as well. But the twins kept facing them courageously.

Hearing Shatrughna challenging them time and again, Lav said to Kush, “Brother! A brave king is challenging us again and again. E, perhaps, does not know that barking dogs seldom bite.”

Kush replied, “Wait! I shall teach him a lesson.” Saying so, he rained volleys of arrows on Shatrughna and pierced his body. Having been badly wounded, he fell down senseless on the ground.

Then they turned to other warriors and killed most of them. Those who could not face them ran away to save their lives.

The runaway soldiers reached the court of Rama and told him all about the twin brothers. He was very amazed to hear this. So, he called Lakshmana and said, “Brother! March at the head of astrong force and bring the two jungle boys into our presence. But be careful not to kill them because they are children of a saint.”

“Yes, brother!” Saying so, Lakshmana bowed low before Rama who blessed him. Then Lakshmana said, “I shall try my best not to kill them. But I doubt the fact that they are children of a saint. Have anybody ever heard of a saint’s son who can catch a yajna horse and give such a fight to the armies of a powerful king?”

Hearing Lakshmana’s words, one of the run-away soldiers said, “Your doubt is unfounded, O prince. They are very much the children of a saint. But at the same time, they are the most dangerous warriors in the battle-field. Their arrows prove fatal to those who happen to be hit by them. Thus they are embodiments of Death-god himself.”

It will be a miracle indeed if your statement is true. We did not come across such warriors even when we had to face the demons, “replied Lakshmana amazement.

“Waste no time any more, Lakshmana. Go and bring them into our presence so that we may see those brave boys,” said Rama to Lakshmana.

So, seeking Ram’s permission, Lakshmana marched to the field of battle with a strong army.

In due course of time, Lakshmana reached the spot where Shatrughna, having been defeated, was lying senseless. Seeing his brother wounded badly, Lakshmana flew into a rage. But when he saw the innocent lovable faces of Lav and Kush, his anger melted away. Advising them most affectionately, he said, “children! Leave this horse and go home. Our dynasty Raghvansha has always held saints and Brahman’s in high esteem.”

Hearing this, both the brothers burst into peals of laughter and replied, “It was you, perhaps, who left Sita helpless in the forest a few years back. Can you dare to fight us? You had better return to Ayodhya otherwise you will meet with the same fate as your brother has done.”

These insulting words enraged Lakshmana once again and he said, “My hands are not ready to attack you, O children! Send for a helper who can defend you like a warrior.”

“A helper! It is you who will need a helper, not we; send for someone who can take you away when we have pierced your body with our arrows.” Saying so, Kush shot a fierce arrow at Lakshmana and his crown went rolling in the air to fall down at a large distance.

Lakshmana’s anger knew no bounds now. So he started showering arrows at both the brothers. But they were far better archers. They shot arrows in such a manner that all the Lakshmana’s arrows were but down half way to fall on the ground in the no-mans land. The battle was so fierce that the land began to tremble and the twang of bows of arrows thundered as clouds.

Then finding a chance, Kush gave such a hard blow to Lakshmana that he could not hold his own. Staggering violently, he felt embarrassed and accepted his defeat in his mind.

Now Lakshmana remembered his brother Ram and plucking up courage, he shot such an arrow at Kush that he got wounded and fell down senseless. Seeing his brother falling down, Lav felt worried. Placing his bow and arrows on the ground, he tried to bring his brother to senses. He remembered Saint Valmiki and moved his hand on the face of Kush who got up at once and said toLakshmana, “You really look to be a warrior.”

Seeing Kush all right again, Lakshmana got ready again and began to shoot dangerous arrows that he had used while fighting against Meghananda and other fierce warriors of Lanka. But Lav andKush rendered then useless cutting them mid-way.

Lakshmana felt embarrassed indeed, the remark about Sita’s helplessness in the forest had done away with his courage, though apparently he looked fighting.

Now Lav set on his bow the arrow that Saint Valmiki had given him after infusing supernatural effect in it through his miraculous power. Nobody in the three worlds could go unhurt when hit by this arrow. So, as soon as this arrow hit Lakshmana, he fell down senseless.

Lakshmana’s defeat demoralized his army. Unable to face the arrows shot by the twin brothers, most of the soldiers fled away in fear. Reaching Ayodhya they informed Rama of Lakshmana’s defeat and unconsciousness.

Now Rama sent for Bharata and told him the entire story. With a heavy heart he said, “Dear brother! I feel it is happening only because of the unjust step of expelling my respected sister-in-law Sita.”

These words made Rama answerless and serious. He, then said, “Bharat! It seems that you fear to go to the battle-field. All right; get ready my army of horsemen and war-elephants. I myself shall go to face the jungle boys. It seems they too, like Ravana, have got fed up with their lives. Go and defend the yajna with care.”

Hearing these words, Bharata felt very ashamed and said, “Excuse me, dear brother. You need not take this trouble. I shall march to the battle-field leaving the yajna to your care.”

Rama agreed and he said, “All right; take Hanuman and other Vanara warriors with you and move to the field of battle.”

So, Bharata sent for Hanuman, first of all, and conveyed him the order of Rama, “Friend! Prepare the Vanara army for a battle against Lav and Kush. Meanwhile, I shall get ready too.”

“Certainly, friend! I will do the needful in no time.”

Saying so, Hanuman set about the task of collecting his army. Bringing Jamvant, Sugreeva, Dwivid, Mayand and Angad too with him, he informed Bharata of their arrival.

Bharata too had got ready by now. He came there and inspected the Vanara army. Then taking permission from Rama, he marched to the battle-field at the head of his army.

Seeing a large Vanara army heading for the battle-field, Lav said to Kush, “Brother! Ram’s army is coming. It is said that this Vanara army put to rout the demon army of Lanka. How nice it will be, if we are able to put this army to rout!”

“A splendid idea indeed. Let the Vanaras come face to face with us.” Saying so, both brothers got ready with their bows and arrows.

As soon as Bharata’s army set foot into the field of battle the twins began to shower arrows on his Vanara soldiers. Their arrows wounded all the chief Vanara warriors and most of them began to lick dust.

Seeing this, Bharata felt worried and he did not know what to do. Not only this, even Hanuman was all praises for the young brothers, their skill in archery and their courage as well.

Finding his entire army badly routed, Bharata said to Hanuman, “I am moved with pity for these tender boys. So, I am not able to attack them. Go and bring them here.”

Hearing Bharata’s words, Hanuman advanced forward with his mace and started fighting against Lav and Kush. But they checkmated him. All his skills in warfare could cut no ice and he felt helpless before them.

Seeing this, Bharata was beside himself with anger. He shot a fierce arrow at Lave who fell down unconscious on the ground. Unable to tolerate it, Kush shot a counter arrow at Bharata. It hit him in his chest and made him senseless.

Then Kush turned to his brother, Lav. He drew out the arrow from his body and nursed his wound. As a result, Lave was ready for fight again.

When the news of Bharata’s unconsciousness and the defeat of Rama’s army reached Ayodhya, Ram felt awfully hurt.

So, leaving the defense of the yajna to the care of his courtiers, he raised an ary. Vibhihana was also there at the time.

Rama marched to the battle-field at the head of his army in a chariot that moved with the speed of wind as if it were eager to come face to face with the enemy and to see all the tree princes of Ayodhya lying unconscious.

In due course of time, Rama reached the field of battle along with his army. Seeing the ruler of Ayodhya present in person there, Hanuman came running and stood before Rama with folded hands.

Seeing the faces of Lav and Kush, Ram could not help looking at them with profound affection. He sent for them and spoke, “children! Who are you? Who is your father and who is your mother? You are really great warriors. I praise your skill in warfare by dint of which you have won the battle defeating all my warriors and lieutenants.”

Hearing these words, the twins said, “Don’t try to engross us in oily words. You will come to know of everything when you are sent tot the land of the dead. Be ready for the battle.”

“No, dear; not at all. I shall never shoot an arrow at you until and unless I have known your names and that of your dynasty. If you really long for a battle with me, give me your complete introduction.”

“Here then;” said the twins, “Our mother – Vandevi – is the princess of Mithila. Saint Valmiki has brought us up. We do not know the name of our father and that of our dynasty.”

Knowing that the twins were his own sons, Rama felt overjoyed but he did not disclose this fact. Then Lav said, “Your Majesty, we have given you our introduction. Now lift your bow and be ready to fight otherwise return you land leaving this beautiful horse here for us. We never attack a running enemy.”

Hearing this, Rama was beside himself with rage and he lifted his bow and arrows. A fierce battle began. All the arouse shot by Lav and Kush were cut down mid-way by rama. But he himself did not shoot arrows on them.

Seeing this, the twins were very surprised. Still they continued the fight and kept showering arrow at Rama.

Rama, sitting in his chariot, kept rendering their arrows useless. His own soldiers were amazed to see him not attacking the boys.

Seeing Rama not attacking the jungle-boys, Hanuman lost patience and he again jumped into the field of battle with his mace.

Seeing Hanuman again before him, Kush flew into a rage and he said, “You have come again! This time I shall defeat you in a wrestling bout.”

So, a wrestling bout began between Kush and Hanuman. In a short time, Kush overpowered Hanuman and tied his hands and feet. Then he asked his brother Lav, “what should we do with the Vanara?”

“Let us take him to Vandevi, our mother. She will be much to happy to see him,” replied Lav.

So, both the brothers carried Hanuman towards their hut.

Leaving Hanuman outside the hut, Lav and Kush went inside and told their mother in joy, “Vandevi! We have brought a find plaything for you.”

“A fine plaything! Where is it?” asked Vandevi doubtfully.

“It is there outside. We’ll bring it here in no time.” Saying so, they brought hanuman and present him to their mother.

Seeing Hanuman with tied hands and feet, Vandevi was nonplused and frightened too. As for Hanuman, he bowed low before her and said, “Mother! Your sons had caught the ashvamedha horse and it resulted in a battle. They have defeated Shatrughna, Lakshmana and Bharata and rendered them unconscious too. Now Rama has come in person to conduct the battle.”

Hearing these words, Vandevi trembled all over an she ordered her sons to untie the bonds of Hanuman. Seeing their mother in rage, they at once set Hanuman free and ran away from there.

Sita came running to Saint Valmiki and found both her sons there. Then narrating all about the battle, she said in a trembling voice, “What an unnatural event, O Fatherly Saint! a battle between a father and his sons!”

“I know everything, my daughter. But why do you worry? Everything will be all right in due course,” said the saint in a consoling voice.

“How after all, father? These sons have proved to be a slur on the fair name of their dynasty,” said Vandevi in a faltering voice.

“They have done no wrong at all, my daughter. Your worry is unfounded. They have done exactly what befits Kshatriya princes. They are sons of a great powerful king, who had freed the earth from demons and rescued you from the grips of Ravana,” said the saint in a consoling and sermonising tine.

“He destroyed those who were unrighteous sinners and this brought laurels to his dynasty. But these children have killed their own men to bring disgrace to the great dynasty of Raghu,” replied Sita.

“No, my daughter; they too have won laurels for their dynasty. You will understand this point in due course.” Saying so, Saint Valmiki consoled Vandevi and asked her to go to her hut. Then he added, “I myself shall visit the battle-field tomorrow.”

Consoled at the saint’s words, Vandevi made for her hut along with Lav and Kush.

Next day, Lav and Kush again came to the battle-field and the battle began as usual. Lav and said to Rama, “If you fear to attack us, O King of Ayodhya, you should leave this horse here and go back to your Capital. Why are you up to meet with an untimely death?”

Hearing these words, Rama smiled and said, “You are just children so far. Such tall words do not become you. So follow my advice and return home. It will be in the interest of all of us indeed.”

“To flee the battle-field may be a principle with you. We are warriors. And warriors either defeat their enemies or fall fighting them with grace. They never choose to show their back in a battle.” Saying so, Lav and Kush started shooting arrow at Ram once again.

But Rama did not launch any counter-attack. He simply cut their arrows down mid-way and rendered them useless.

 

The battle went on for a long time when Rama lost patience and set his invincible arrow on his bow and said, “You are undoubtedly very rude and haughty, children! If God wants you to die of my arrows, what can I do?” Saying so, Rama drew the cord of his bow with a view to shooting the arrow.

Just then the voice of Saint Valmiki reached Rama’s ears, “Wait! Wait!! My Lord, otherwise something unnatural will happen.”

The saint’s words caused Rama to hold his hand back from shooting the arrow. The saint rushed to the spot and said, “Stop this battle, your Majesty. It is in nobody’s interest.”

“Why after all, O Great Saint?” asked Rama in surprise getting down from his chariot.

Rama, then, touched the saint’s feet who after uttering a blessing on him said, “These two boys are none else but your own sons. How can there be a battle between a father and his sons?”

“What! They are my sons!” Rama asked as if he was ignorant of this fact.

“Yes your Majesty!” Saying this, the saint narrated the entire story from the time since Sita was left in the forest by Lakshmana. He also told Rama about the birth of the twin brothers in her hermitage. Then he said, “These two boys have you blood in their veins and so they are equally powerful and great. Pardon them and hug them affectionately.”

Then Saint Valmiki called Lav and Kush and introducing them to Rama he said, “He is your father Rama. Go and touch his feet. Also beg his pardon for your rudeness.”

Directed by the saint, Lav and Kush bowed low before Rama and asked for his pardon. Rama uttered many blessings on them and hugged them most affectionately. They were overjoyed to have their powerful father before them. The meeting between the father and his sons rejoiced the saint and he sprinkled holy water on Bharat, Lakshmana and Shatrughna who were lying unconscious there. All the three got up and lay prostrate before the saint. Then they turned to Rama and bowed low before him. But they were amazed to se the twins in Rama’s lap.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

Rama gave rich gifts to all the Vanaras when they were about to leave Ayodhya after his coronation. Everybody was ready to leave but seeing Hanuman hesitating, Sugreeva asked him, “Are you not going with us?” “My Lord! Would you permit me to stay here and serve Rama?” asked Hanuman with folded hands.

“You pose to be more attached to Rama than anybody else. But can you prove that your devotion is true and sincere?” enquired Sugreeva.

Hearing this, Hanuman remembered Rama and Sita and then tore off his chest with his nails. Sugreeva was amazed to see images of Rama and Sita therein. Everybody present there could not help praisingHanuman.

Sugreeva was so impressed that he said, “You are an embodiment of all noble values. Your devotion to Rama is unequalled. So, I free you from all the bonds. You may stay here if you so desire.”

Thus began the Ram Rajya where everyone was happy. People co-operated with one another and they observed the rules of religion and society. Nobody suffered in any way. Nor did anyone die an untimely dearth.

People were free from disease and poverty. Pain and ignorance were not there at all. Men as well as women remained absorbed in virtue and so they were noble and mannerly. The strong and the weak lived in affection. Even birds and animals loved one another. The soil gave rich crops and plants bore delicious fruit and beautiful flowers.

Rivers carried sweet water and the hills were rich in precious stones. That age was the Golden age of the history of mankind indeed. People were happy and prosperous.

Rama had a sublime daily routine. Having a bath in the Saryu early in the morning, he sat for this prayers. Then he had sermons from his preceptor Vasishtha on matters of religion, worldly life and the duties of an ideal ruler. He always had his meals in company with his brothers.

Then coming to the court, Rama attended to his state-affairs. He loved his subjects from the core of his heart. So, he used to give interviews to common people daily to know their troubles. Then he took steps to redress them as early as possible.

The saints and hermits living in the vicinity of Ayodhya often visited Rama’s capital. Seeing the people enjoying the blessings of Ram- Rajya, they felt so happy that sometimes they felt like leaving off their forest life and settling in Ayodhya.

Rama used to hold his court in the everning as well every day. The spies informed him of all the happenings and of the roubles of the people. One day a spy came to the court as usual and bowing low before Ram, he stood silent on one side. Seeing him silent, Rama suspected that something wrong had happened. So, he said to the spy, “Don’t be afraid at all. Say whatever you want to say without any sort of hesitation. I want to know whether any of my subjects is in trouble.”

“My Lord! I want to be excused.” Saying so, the spy again became silent as if his tongue were not ready to say what he wanted to say.

Seeing him silent again, Ram said, “Why don’t you tell the news you have brought? Is it unpleasant news? Say what it is. I am impatient to know it.” “Your majesty! A washerman, while reproaching his wife, was saying something improper regarding our queen,” said the spy in a faltering voice.

Ordered to say everything in detail, the spy said, “Sir, during the course of my daily round, I passed by the house of a washerman. I heard the harsh words which the washeman was speaking to his wife. Hearing them, I stopped short and set my ears to what he was speaking.”

“Say everything clearly,: said Rama.

“Your Majesty! Somebody had misled the washerman’s wife and he had taken her way. When she returned the next day, she told everything to her husband who flew into a rage and said, “You unfaithful bitch! I am an ordinary man, I am not so great as Rama who has accepted his wife Sita even after she remained in Ravana’s custody for such a long time. Get lost at once. There is no room for you here.” Saying so, the spy became silent.

”What happened then? Did the washerman allow her to remain there or not? Asked Rama serenely.

“No, sir; he turned her out,” replied the spy.

Rama dismissed the court and retired to his palace with a heavy heart. The words of the washerman regarding Sita pinched him like anything. Having given a cool thought to the entire matter he said to himself, “For the upkeep of the religious and social principles, I will have to part company with Sita. But it is essential that the veracity of this happening be proved before taking any step.”

So, Rama asked his soldiers to investigate whether the happening in the washerman’s house was true or not.

The report submitted by the soldiers supported what the spy had said.

Rama could not sleep in peace at night. He remained restless all the night through. When his three brothers came to greet him the next morning as usual, they found him sad and dejected. Rama’s pale looks and gloomy mood stunned his brothers. They all suspected something ominous to happen.

After some time Rama addressed Lakshmana in a serene voice and said, “Take Sita with you at once and leave her in the forest.”

“Brother! What is the matter after all? What is her fault? Why have you decided to leave her? asked Lakshmana.

“That is God’s will, brother. What I have said, is for the good of all. If my order is violated, I shall end my life.”

Hearing Rama’s words, the three brothers stood dumb as statues.

Then collecting courage, Bharata said with folded hands, “Brother! I am a man of ordinary wits but you are omniscient. I would like to know, “Can a fish live away from water? Can a crop grow without rain? And can Sita survive in separation from you now?”

“You are right, Bharat. But I am not only a son, brother and husband, but a ruler also. And a ruler has to live up to the expectation of his people. Saying these words, Rama told his brothers what thewasherman had said to his wife. To keep Sita in the palace will amount to a slur on our exalted dynasty. I have got to save it from this slur.”

“whoever said such words for Sita is sure to go to hell,” said Lakshmana. “Come what may my brother. Go and carry out my order,” said Rama. “I am here to obey you, brother.” Saying so Lakshmana set out to the forest in a chariot with Sita in it.

Reaching the thick of the forest, Lakshmana requested Sita to get down. Sita complied with the request, but she felt frightened to see the dreadful forest on all sides and said, “Lakshmana! There is no hermitage even anywhere around. This dense forest is the abode of fierce wild animals. Why have you brought me here?”

“Respected Sister-in-law! Your husband Rama has ordered me to leave you here in this forest and I can never violate his order, you know.” replied Lakshmana in a faltering voice.

Hearing these words, Sita fell down senseless. As soon as Lakshmana advanced to give her support, a divine voice said, “Lakshmana! Leave her here and rush back to Ayodhya. She will survive.”

Hearing this, Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya leaving Sita lying there.

Coming to herself, Sita looked around but she could see no sign of Lakshmana and his chariot. She said to herself, “Have I been sent to this forest with Lakshmana so that you may get rid of me? I have already suffered a lot. Even death is not ready to accept me.” Thinking so, she began to bewail bitterly.

By chance, Saint Valmiki happened to pass that way. Hearing Sita bewail so bitterly, he came to her and said, “Who are you, my daughter? Why are you here alone and why are you weeping like that?”

“I am Sita, daughter of King Janak of Mithila and queen of Rama, the ruler of Ayodhya, O Saint??? Saying so, she related her woeful take to the saint.

Hearing Sita’s tale of woe, Saint Valmiki could not make out the reason of sending Sita to the forest by her husand Rama. So, he asked, “My daughter! Let me know the reason behind your expulsion.”

“But I myself do not know, O fatherly saint. My husband’s younger brother brought me here in a shariot and left me here when I was lying unconscious under the shock of being expelled fro no reason.”

Then the saint retorted, “You father, Janaka, has been my disciple. So, you are quite safe, my daughter. Shed all worry and sorrow. Have patience, your husband shall come one day in person to take you. Come with me to my hermitage and stay there.”

The saint gave Sita useful and consoling sermons and took er to his abode.

Sita mad e Saint Valmiki’s hermitage her home. Daily in the morning she sat before the saint to have sermons. She was leading a very simple life full of righteousness.

In due course of time, Sita bore two sons. Hearing the news, Saint Valmiki came there and said to the women who were present there, “The one who has been born earlier should be cleaned with grass (Kush) while the other with the remnants of the reaped crop (lav). And accordingly, the elder should be named Kush while the younger should be named Lav.”

So the twin sons of Sita came to be named Kush and Lav respectively.

The twins began to grow up there at the hermitage. They called their mother – Vandevi (forest goddess). In due course of time, they began to get education from Saint Valmiki himself. This they began to grow up living in discipline and serving the saint with profound devotion.

The saint composed a song narrating Sita’s woeful tale and made both her sons to memorise it.

The twins used to sing this song in a melodious voice without knowing that this song was about the story of their own mother and the name – Rama – mentioned in the poem was of their own father. The song depicted the story right from Rama’s swayamvara to the expulsion of Sita.

The saint, now, started giving them education in the use of arms and weapons and the tactics of warfare. Both the brothers became awfully expert in the use of bow and arrows. So, they grew up to be talented, courageous and fearless warriors. Not only this, they learnt many artifices in archery which few other archers knew. Saint Valmiki was himself a great archer. So, he trained them in the skill of archery to exceptional extents.

Observing the mastery that the twins had acquired in the use of bow and arrows, the saint’s joy knew no bounds indeed. On the one hand, he felt proud of them as his pupils and on the other, he felt delighted to think of the exploits that they were to do in the time to come. The saint could foresee the coming events through his supernatural premonition.

One day, Rama accompanied by his prime minister, Sumanta, and his three brothers went to the hermitage of Saint Vasishtha. Bowing low before the saint, Rama said with folded hands, “Revered Preceptor! I have done a number of Yajnas, so to say. But my subjects are insisting on a horse-sacrifice Yajna (ashwamedha).”

“May your desire be duly fulfilled, Ram” Saying so, the saint said to Bharata, “My son! Go and start preparations for the horse-sacrifice Yajna.”

“I’m here to obey you, sir,” Saying so, Bharata, Lakshmana and Shatrughna left he hermitage.

When the preparations for the Yajna were over, Rama and Saint Vasishtha inspected them and they felt very pleased to see the arrangements that the three younger princes had made. They praised their efforts and blessed them.

Now Rama summoned a number of messengers and gave them certain directions. Then they were sent to various kings and rulers with a view to informing them of the forthcoming Yajna. Not only this, some messengers were sent to request the celebrated saints of the day to come and grace the occasion. It was done in consultation with Saint Vasishtha.

Receiving the invitation, a number of kings and rulers arrived at Ayodhya to take part in the Yajna. They included Sugreeva, Vibhishana, Jamvant, Nala Vishwamitra also reached the site of the Yajna.

King Janaka, on being informed, marched to Ayodhya along with his four winged army and a large number of saints including his royal priest Shatananda. Bharata was gien the responsibility of entertaining the guests.

Directed by his Preceptor, Rama got prepared a gold image of his wife Sita because Saint Vasishtha had tomd him that no Yajna is considered to be complete until and unless the wife sits on the left of the husband, the performer of the Yajna. Everybody who was present on the occasion praised the gold image of Sita.

Two thousand scholarly Brahmanas were deputed to recite the mantras. Also a beautiful white horse was decorated profusely and brought to the site of the performance. Thus the Yajna was started in the month of magha (January) and Rama made offerings of Yajna material to the sacred fire as instructed by the priests.

After the completion of the Yajna, the horse was brought near the sacred fire and necessary worship was performed. Than a tilak was put on the fore-head of the horse, also, a declaration was hung from its saddle –

“Rama, the ruler of Ayodhya, claims superiority to all the kings. Any on who likes to defy this claim, should catch the horse and invite a war from the master of horse. If the claim is acceptable, a yearly tribute should be sent to Rama.”

Then taking out an invincible arrow from his quiver, Rama handed it across to Shatrughna and said, “Brother! Accost this horse and return after winning all the kings.”

“I’ll do the needful, brother.” Saying so, Shatrughna took the arrow.”

Deputed for the over-all victory, Shatrughna proceeded on this mission along with the Yajna-horse and a strong contingent of soldiers with him. The force included four thousand horses, two thousand chariots and elephants, a large number of campers, entertainers and dancers.

Shatrughna was given special instructions not to rouble anybody anywhere during the journey until and unless somebody comes forward with defiance of the declaration hung from the saddle of the Yajna-horse.

The first encounter took place between Ram’s force and Lavnasur, a very powerful demon chief, who had defeated gods, Nagas and a number of kings of his area.

Shatrughna besieged the capital of Lavnasur who came out with a large army to face Shatrughna. A fierce battle followed. Seeing Lavnasur killing the Koshala soldiers, Shatrughna shot Rama’s invincible arrow at him and he fell down dead on the ground. As a result, his soldiers ran away and victorious Shatrughna proceeded forward.

The news of lavnasur’s defeat and death broke the pride of other headstrong rulers and all of them accepted the over-lordship of Rama without taking courage to any sort of opposition.

Shatrughna went on marching forward extending Ram’s sway on every region he passed through.

Now Shatrughna entered a dense forest. The white horse was being followed by Rama’s army under Shatrughna. It was the very forest where Saint Valmiki had his hermitage and where Kush and Lav lived along with their mother.

When the twin brothers saw the white horse, they liked it very much. Lav said to his brother, “Kush! Look at that horse. How fine it is! I feel like catching it and keeping it for our daily rides.”

“All right; let us catch it.” Saying so, Kush advanced to catch the horse. Lav followed him closely too. Both the brothers caught the horse and tied it to a nearby tree. Then they read the declaration hanging from its saddle and burst into peals of laughter.

In a short time, Rama’s soldiers came there searching for the horse. Seeing it tied to a tree, they flew into a rage but considering the twins to be just boys, they did not express their anger in any way. One of the soldiers said, “Boys! This horse is not meant for you. You seem to be very good children. Leave it; it is ours. Certainly, you are born to very noble parents.”

Kush retorted, “Why after all, Read the declaration. If you want the horse, be ready for a battle. Win us and take away the horse. If you don’t have the guts to do that, rush back to your king.”

The soldiers advised them, “Boys! You are still very young. To exchange arms with you is not proper for us. So, be wise and return the horse. It is in your interest.”

“Don’t you feel ashamed to beg? Don’t you feel, it is disgraceful for a warrior to beg like that?” retorted Kush.

Finding the twins stubbornly defiant, the soldiers were beside themselves with rage. They advanced towards them with a view to chastise them.

Seeing this, Lav shot arrows that pierced the bodies of many of them and they fell down. Others ran in fear to Shatrughna who asked them in surprise, “Why do look so frightened? What has happened? Where is the horse?”

“Two jungle boys have caught the horse and tied it to a tree, sir. They have wounded many of our soldiers with their arrows. We have run back to inform you that these boys seem to be very brave warriors,” replied the soldiers.

“Come on with me. Let me see those boys. I would like to see how brave they are.” Saying so, Shatrughna set out to the place where the horse was tied.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

News of Meghanada’s fall in the battle-field incited Ravana’s rage to the maximum and he himself marched to the battle-field. The Vanara army was rejoicing at their success at the time. It was Vibhishana who gave th good news of Meghanada’s fall to Rama first of all. He told Rama, “Your brother Lakshmana has killed Meghanada.”

When Ravana came to know that his brother Vibhishana was siding with Rama, his anger crossed all limits. So, he decided to make short work of Vibhishana.

Meanwhile, Rama and Vibhishana came to the battle-field. Seeing Vibhishana, Ravana could not control himself. In a fit of anger, he aimed at his brother and shot an arrow at him. But Lakshmana shot an arrow that cut Ravana’s arrow into two. Thus Vibhishana was saved from being killed by Ravana.

The failure of his arrow, enhanced Ravana’s wrath even more and he began to rain arrows on the Vanaras ruthlessly. It sent a wave of terror in Rama’s army and they began to fall in the action. Others lost their enthusiasm and thought of running away.

Seeing this, Hanuman flew into a rage and taking his mace, he rushed to face the ruler of Lanka. He assumed a dreadful form and started killing the demon soldiers fighting on Ravana’s side. Seeing a large number of his soldiers dead, Ravana attacked Hanuman with his arrows. But these arrows could do no harm to him.

Demon warriors like Virupaksh, Mahodar and Mahaparshva having been killed in the action, Ravana felt disheartened as well enraged. So, he ordered his charioteer to drive the chariot further. He said, “Advance further. All the chief warriors of my army have fallen fighting. I’ll return to Lanka after killing both Rama and Lakshmana.”

Saying so, Ravana made use of a weapon that started scorching the Vanara soldiers alive. Half burnt bodies of Vanara soldiers were lying everywhere.

Seeing this, Rama and Lakshmana came to face Ravana. A fierce battle was raging now. Arrows were being shot ruthlessly from both sides and soldiers were falling in large numbers.

Rama and Ravana – both started using the most lethal weapons. These weapons were extremely dreadful. They struck against each other and fell down in the no-man’s land.

Suddenly Lakshmana started raining fierce arrows on Ravana’s chariot. It killed the charioteer and blew off his flag. Just then Vibhishana joined Lakshmana and killed the horses of Ravana’s chariot.

This enraged the ruler of Lanka and he thundered, “O Lakshmana, you seem to be so proud of your warriorship. In this intoxication, you saved Vibhishana yesterday from being killed. I must settle scores with you. I shall now use an invincible weapon on you. It will surely send you to the land of the dead. Be ready.” Saying so, Ravana flung that weapon on Lakshmana. It hit him on the chest and he was critically wounded. So, he fell down unconscious on the ground. Seeing his brother senseless, Rama was plunged into deep sorrow.

Then at once Rama drew the weapon out of Lakshmana’s chest and said to Hanuman and Sugreeva, “Make strong cordon round Lakshmana. I shall not let Ravana remain alive.”

Saying so, Rama showered arrows on Ravana and wounded him very badly. Such fierce battle was being fought between the two that the onlookers began to tremble in awe.

Rama was fighting in full fury and Ravana was on the defensive. Rama’s arrows were piercing Ravana’s body just as a strong wind shatters a cloud to small pieces

Ravana could not stand Rama’s onslaught and he fled the battle-field.

When Ravana had fled, Rama placed his brother’s head in his lap. Hanuman had already brought Sushen, the physician, along with his cot on which he was sleeping. Lakshmana was lying in a pool of blood. He was smarting under acute pain. Rama said to the physician, “Sir, my brother is badly wounded. Look! How he is chafing in pain. I am awfully worried. Do something to soothe him at once, please.”

The physician consoled Rama and said, “There is nothing to fear, Ram! Send Hanuman to the Mount Mahodaya so that he may bring a life-giving herb (sanjivani) that grows on its southern peak. That herb will relieve all pain and infuse a new life in your brother’s body. But it should essentially reach here before sunrise.”

So, Rama persuaded Hanuman to go and bring the life-saving herb as early as possible. Hanuman at once proceeded on this mission.

When Ravana came to know that Hanuman was going to bring the life-saving herb, he sent a demon, Kalnemi by name, to prevent Hanuman from reaching the Mount Mahodaya. The demon transformed himself into a saint and sitting across Hanuman’s way, began to invoke Rama. Seeing the saint’s hut, Hanuman asked for water. Kalnemi directed him to a nearby lake.

When Hanuman was drinking water at the lake, a giant spider caught his neck. He killed the spider with a blow. The spider became free from a saint’s curse and came to its real form. It said, “You have freed me from the curse. So, I let you know a secret. The saint you met on the way is not a saint indeed. He is a demon sent by Ravana to mislead you.

So, Hanuman came back to Kalnemi and killed him then and there. Then he reached the Mount of Mahodaya but he failed to recognise the herb. So, he carried a part of the mountain along with all the herbs growing on it.

It was night and Hanuman was flying over Ayodhya along with the mountain on his hand. Bharata, the king of Ayodhya took him for a demon and shot an arrow at him. It struck Hanuman who fell down on the ground calling out the name – Ram. Hearing Ram’s name, Bharata ran to Hanuman and asked him, “Who are you, brother?”

“I am a humble servant of Rama. I am carrying this life saving herb for Lakshmana.” Saying so, he narrated the entire incident.

Hearing Hanuman’s words, Bharata embraced Hanuman and expressed his regrets for hitting him with an arrow. Then he said, “Brother, day-break is not very far-off. Sit on this arrow along with your mountain. I shall make you reach Rama in an instant.”

Hanuman agreed and Bharata did what he had said.

Seeing Hanuman back in time, Rama was very pleased. Placing the mountain piece on the ground, Hanuman said to the physician, “I could not recognise the herb, so I have brought this mountain – piece. Use the herb you want.”

The physician administered the required herb to Lakshmana and he got recovered in no time and got up. All the Vanaras rejoiced at the event in merriment.

As for Rama, his joy knew no bounds and embracing his brother, he said, “Lakshmana! Hanuman has given you a new life. If something unpleasant had happened, I would have been nowhere.”

Hearing the news of Lakshmana’s recovery, Ravana sent for his warriors and said, “I myself shall route my enemies now. Get ready my chariot that moves with the speed of wind.”

In a short time, Ravana moved to the battle-field on his chariot followed by all the four-wings of his army. Several other warriors too led their chariots to the field of battle. The march of the demon solders raised clouds of dust and it made the sun invisible. It caused the sea to be turbulent and the hills to lose their equilibrium. The sound of the war-trumpets seemed as if the clouds of the Doom’s day were thundering.

Soon both the armies stood face to face and in the twinkling of an eye, arrows began to be rained from both sides. Seeing Ravana on his chariot, Vibhishana got frightened. He went to Rama who was on the ground.

Vibhishana said to Ram, “My Lord, you have neither a chariot nor any armour. How will you win Ravana, the powerful?”

Hearing these words, Rama smiled and said, “Vibhishana! Self- confidence is my chariot and my courage and patience are its wheels. Truth and character are my flag while my strength, knowledge, self-control and goodwill are four horses of my chariot. Forgiveness and uniform behaviour are the ropes used to tie these horses. Faith in God in my charioteer while contentment and charity are my sword and axe respectively. My principles are my arrows. Devotion to the Brahmanas and to my preceptor is my impenetrable armour. What other means of victory can one crave for?”

Red in anger, Ravana fell upon the Vanara army and began to fling the soldiers on the ground. His twenty arms showered volleys of arrows on Rama’s soldiers and most of them fell in action. Those who escaped ran to Rama for help. Seeing this, Lakshmana came running to face Ravana.

After fighting for some time, Ravana returned to his palace and began to perform a Yajna. Coming to know of it, Vibhishana went to Rama and said, “Ravana is performing a Yajna to be invincible. If successful, nobody will be able to kill him. So, it is advisable to render the Yajna unsuccessful.”

Directed by Rama, Hanuman and Angad barged into Ravana’s palace and said, “You shameless coward! Why have you fled from the battle-field? Why are you posing to be a saint here?” Hearing this, Ravana left his Yajna incomplete and returned to the battle-field.

Ravana came face to face with Rama who prompted by Vibhishana rained fire-emitting arrows in his navel. As a result, all the nectar present there got dry. Then Rama severed his heads and arms from his body.

Ravana’s headless body fell down with a thud and after smarting for a few minutes it became motionless.

Seeing his brother dead, Vibhishana got plunged in sorrow. Rama consoled him and said, “Vibhishana! Be calm and perform the last rites of your brother.” Vibhishana went to Lanka and performed Ravana’s last rites. Queen Mandodari and other queens returned to the palace praising Rama for his bravery and greatness.

Next day, Rama directed Lakshmana to go to Lanka along with Sugreeva, Angad, Hanuman, Nala and Jamvant and coronate Vibhishana duly because he himself escorted by others went to Lanka and enthroned Vibhishana after a ceremony.

After Vibhishana’s coronation, Ram sent for Vibhishana and Angad and said, “Both of you should go accompanied by Hanuman and bring Sita here most respectfully.”

So, they went to Sita and bowed low before her. Then making her sit in a palanquin, they brought her to Rama.

Now hanuman said to Ram, “Sita felt very pleased to know of your victory. But still she is dejected. Be kind enough to go in person to receive her. “

With tears in his eyes, Rama went to Sita who looked very serene at that time. She began to look at Rama in amazement but with a heart full of love and happiness.

Rama felt highly pleased to see Sita. He said to her in a gentle voice. “Darling! Observing all the traditions carefully, I have rescued you from the enemy’s prison after killing him in the field of battle. But no honourable person will accept his wife back after she had passed some time in another person’s house. So, we will have to be separate again now.”

Rama’s words fell like a bolt from the blue on Sita. Weeping bitterly, she said in a heavy voice, “It is right that I was in Ravana’s prison. But I have never even thought of anybody else but you. How unfortunate I am, that even my own husband is doubting my chastity! What for should I live then?”

Then Sita, who was pure in thought , word and deed, said to Lakshmana, “Observing the tenets of religion, make a fire at once.”

Lakshmana obeyed Sita and she , with folded hands, prayed to Fire-god “My honour is in your hands, O Lord. I don’t want to proclaim that I am pure but my husband doubts my chastity. Be kind to help me prove that I have always been faithful to him. “Let your sting be as cool as sandal.” Saying so, Sita entered the fire most gladly.

Seeing this, all present there began to scream in pain. There was a hue and cry but Rama stood motionless gazing at Sita. As soon as Sita entered the fire, it went out itself.

Fire-god appeared out of the fire and said to Rama, “Your wife Sita is a lady of high chastity. She is pious in thought, deed and sight even. She has not been even touched by sin or evil. She has never thought of any person other than you for a moment even. So, accept her.” Saying so, the Fire-god handed over Sita to her husband Rama.

Sita was looking so charming at that time. Her complexion resembled that of the rising sun and her golden ornaments increased her charm a lot. Seeing her beauty, everyone present felt happy. They began to praise her.

After the ordeal, Rama advanced towards Sita and said in a repentant voice, “Darling, never take to heart anything. I never doubted your chastity. But if anybody else had raised such a doubt, it would have been intolerable for me as well as for you. So, this ordeal was essential, thought I knew that your fidelity was strong enough to protect you form any evil eye – be it Ravana’s or of anybody else.”

Then Rama took Sita’s hand in his own and went away. She too shed all sorrow and became as happy as ever in the company of her dear husband. Everybody who was present there felt overjoyed to see the husband and wife together once again.

Now Vibhishana said to Rama with folded hands, “My Lord! The period of your exile is over. So, be kind enough to grace my cottage along with your spouse.”

Hearing this Rama said, “It is so nice of you to invite us like that. But you know I have always been thinking of Bharata who will be eagerly looking forward to my return. A moment’s delay will be intolerable for him. He is performing the duties of a king but living as a hermit. Any tardiness on my part to reach Ayodhya may push him in the jaws of death. So, I would take leave of you.”

So, Vibhishana sent for an air-vehicle. Seating Rama, Lakshmana and Sita in it, he proceeded to Ayodhya. The air-vehicle flew over the battle-field which Sita was amazed to see. Then Rama show her the bridge across the sea and the Shive temple which he had built on the sea-shore.

Bharat was counting the days of Rama’s exile on his fingers. Only one day was left out of the exile-period. He was lost in thoughts. He said to himself, “Only one day left, but no news of my brother Rama has reached me so far.” Just then Hanuman appeared before him in the guise of a Brahmana. Seeing Bharata’s condition, he was moved to pity. He bowed low before Bharata and informed him of Ram’s imminent arrival. “Please let everybody in the palace and also Saint Vasishtha know it,” said Hanuman.

Bharata was overjoyed to know of Rama’s arrival. He sent word to all in the palace about it. The people of Ayodhya were also informed of it. A current of joy ran across the length and breadth of the town. People began to make preparations to receive their prince back.

The town of Ayodhya was decorated like a bride and people stood agape gazing at the path along which Rama was to come.

As soon as Rama set foot on the land of Ayodhya, he addressed Angad and Vibhishana and said, “Look! This land is my motherland. The water of the Saryu is so pious for me. It gives me perfect peace of mind. The people of Ayodhya are dearer to me than my life even.

Taking a pinch of the soil to his fore-head, Vibhishana said, “We are fortunate to be on this pious soil.”

Looking at Bharata along with other people ready to welcomes, tears welled up in Rama’s eyes. Bharata lay prostrate at his brother’s feet and Rama embraced him most affectionately.

Both the brothers were shedding tears of joy. Shatrughna and Lakshmana hugged each other too. Then Bharata and Shatrughna bowed low before Sita. Lakshmana also touched Bharata’s feet out of profound love and respect.

Rama having reached Ayodhya, Saint Vasishtha summoned a meeting of all the courtiers. Also, scholarly Braham’s were consulted. He said, “The day of today is a rec-letter day indeed. Rama has returned safe and sound after his 14 year exile. Please confer among yourselves whether it is proper to coronate Ram today or not.”

Hearing this, all the people spoke in one voice, “Revered Saint! Delay in this auspicious event is not good. Coronation should be performed at once.”

So, directed by Saint Vasishtha, Rama, Sita and Lakshmana took off their forest robes. Each of them had a bath and got dressed in a royal robe.

Then Rama was seated on the throne and his coronation was performed in a befitting manner. The spectators raised slogans – Victory to Rama and Sita.

Now Rama held his court as the king of Ayodhya. Sugreeva, Angad and many other Vanara dignitaries were present. Rama addressed them and said, “All of you have served me a lot. You all are far from your families for my sake only. Not only this, you have even forsaken your comforts for me. I am highly grateful to you all. How long will you keep serving me like that? Be kind enough to return to your places and perform your duties for your families and people there. “

Hearing these words, the Vanaras stood agape. No words could come out of their lips due to emotion. Then Rama sermonised them on worldly life and showering valuable gifts on each of them, he saw them off with full honour.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

Hanuman informed Rama of Sita’s plight and said, “My Lord! Sita wants that her honour can be kept up only if you yourself kill Ravana and rescue her.”

“Hanuman! I shall march on Lanka and put Ravana to death without much delay.” Saying so, Ram sent for Sugreeva and asked him to start preparations for making war on Ravana.

Hearing Ram’s words, Sugreeva at once summoned his general Neel and ordered him to get ready for the march along with the entire Vanara army.

Receiving the king’s order, General Neel ordered the army to advance towards Lanka instantly. The Vanara soldiers lifted Ram and Lakshmana on their shoulders and the army proceeded towards the sea-shore.

Ram’s encouraging suggestions kept the Vanara army in high spirits and surmounting all the difficulties, this large army reached the sea-shore.

Rama said to Sugreeva, “Friend, we have arrived at the sea-shore. Now we should find some way out to take out army across the vast sea.”

The day had ended and darkness had prevailed. The moonrise led to a fearful tide in the ocean and its waves looked so dreadful indeed. So, the Vanara soldiers camped there at the sea-shore with a strong enthusiasm to go across the sea as early as possible. The foaming sea with its frisking waves looked as if it were jumping in joy.

Just then Lakshmana caught sight of some demons in the sky. He got up with a start and said to Rama, “Brother! Look there. Some demons are roaming in the sky. We must be ready to face them.”

But those demons had not come with any evil design. They had come with Vibhishana, Ravana’s younger brother, who had been turned out of Lanka. He came down and coming to Rama spoke with folded hands, “I am Ravana’s brother, sir. I advised him hard to set your wife free and beg your pardon but all in vain. Not only this, he expelled me from Lanka. Hearing Vibhishana’s words, Sugreeva said, “I smell a rat in the matter. We must not be taken in by these demons. It is better to refuse him shelter.”

“But I can’t refuse shelter to one who seeks it from me. It is tradition with our dynasty,” retorted Ram. So, Rama welcomed Vibhishana into his camp.

Rama held a long talk with Vibhishana and as a result, he came to know of the real power of Ravana. Vibhishana told Rama, “By virtue of a boon from Lord Brahma, Ravana is invincible for Gandharvas, Naga and other creatures. Our brother Kumbhkarana is a great warrior – no less than Indra indeed. Ravana’s general, Prahast by name, had defeated Kuber’s general Manibhadra. Ravana’s son Meghanada, when he puts on gloves made of the skin of a porcupine and an impenetrable armour, becomes invisible in the battle field.”

Hearing Vibhishana’s words, Rama said, “However strong Ravana may be, I must kill him.”

As suggested by Vibhishana, Rama decided to worship the water-god. He said, “I request you, O Water-god, to give way so that my soldiers may get to the other shore.”

Then sitting on a grassy seat and folding his hands, Rama kept praying to the god. He kept praying with utmost care for three days and three nights. But the Water-god did not appear.

Rama now lost patience and flew into a rage. He said to his brother Lakshmana, “Water-god is very haughty indeed. That is why he hasn’t appeared despite my continuous prayers. It has been rightly said that peace, forgiveness, simplicity and gentleness do not yield any result when they are used with those who are ignoble.”

Ram continued saying, “Brother! Pease and gentleness can achieve neither fame nor victory in a battle. So, leaving the path of peace, I shall resort to violence. I shall kill all the sea-animals in the ocean. Their dead bodies will cover its entire surface.”

Saying so, Rama got up and moved his hand back to take out an arrow from his quiver and set it on his bow. Addressing the water-god, he said, “You have taken my patience to be my weakness. But now I shall dry up all your water so that the Vanara army may be able to cross you on foot. People say that you never lose balance of mind. But I shall force you to do that. I shall force you to violate all your norms today.”

As soon as Rama set this arrow to his bow, the earth and the sky began to tremble. The mountains lost their equilibrium and darkness prevailed everywhere. The water-masses became turbulent and hundreds of meteors appeared in the sky. A huge thunder emanated from the clouds and lightning flashed violently time and again. Strong winds tossed the clouds hither and thither and also it uprooted tress and whistled dreadfully.

Seeing this, the water-god at once came out of the sea and stood before Rama. Then he said in a sweet voice, “Be calm, My Lord! You have Nala and Neela two expert masons with you. Ask them to construct a bridge over me. I shall bear its burden.” Saying so, the water-god disappeared.

As suggested by the water-god, Nala and Neela constructed a bridge over the sea. The stones used by them began to float on the sea-waters. Seeing the bridge ready, Rama said to them, “What a nicebridge you have built! I want to perform a sacred ceremony in order to pay homage to Lord Shiva and build a temple in his honour here before I take the Vanara army to the other shore of the sea.”

Hearing this, Sugreeva sent for a larger number of saints and hermits. They suggested that only Ravana was competent to carry out the sacred performance as he was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva and great scholar as well.

So, Rama sent for Ravana with due respect though a messenger. Ravana came and gladly carried out the performance. Then showering blessings of victory upon Rama, he returned to his capital.

Now the Vanara army started its march across the ocean. Some of them jumped into the sea and advanced forward leaning against the railings of the bridge. Some of them flew over the bridge. Most of them went over the bridge in a disciplined way. The noise and the war-cries raised by the large Vanara army shrouded the roar of the violent sea-waves even.

In due course of time, the Vanara army got to the other shore. Seeing the availability of water, fruit and other forest-foods, Sugreeva ordered his army to camp on the sea-shore itself.

Then Rama said to Sugreeva, “Friend! We must lead an attack on Lanka with a strong contingent today itself.” Saying so, Rama took the lead and the army followed him under the command of Sugreeva and Vibhishana.

Seeing Rama’s army camping on Mount Suvela, the spies of Lanka ran to Ravana and said, “Your Majesty! Rama has reached here with a very large army that looks unconquerable.”

Ravana, realizing the critical situation, took Vidyujinha, a very strong demon who possessed great miraculous powers, with him and entered the garden where Sita was staying. He said, “O great demon! Create Rama’s head through your magical power so that I may show it to Sita. I think she will agree to marry me when she sees Rama’s head.”

Vidyujinha created Rama’s head and his bow and arrows as well. Taking them to Sita, Ravana said, “Look Sita! We led a fierce attack on the Vanara army yesterday. Your husband was killed. Here is his head.”

Seeing the head, Sita fell down on the ground and began to bewail bitterly.

Placing the Ram’s magic created head before Sita, Ravana went away. Just then a demoness, Sarma by name, came there and spoke to Sita in a consoling voice, “Be calm, O Sita. Don’t be misled by Ravana’s tricks. This head is not real but only magic-created. Your husband is camping near Lanka.”

“Is it true?” asked Site with a start, “You are so noble, Sarma.”

“Certainly, dear. Ravana is bad at heart as well in thought and deed. He tried to win you over through magic. Don’t worry at all. Rama and Lakshmana have reached here with a large army. I have seen them with my own eyes,” replied Sarma.

Rama, with a view to conquering Lanka ordered the sounding of war bugles so that Ravana might know that attack on Lanka was imminent. Hearing the sound of the bugles, Ravana collected his courtiers and said, “I have heard about Rama’s power, bravery and about his crossing the sea. But we are by no means weaker in any respect.”

Hearing Ravana’s claim, a demon, Malyavan by name, said to Ravana, ‘Your Majesty, tradition says that stronger kings should be won over by means of friendship. So, you must return Sita to Rama and make friends with him.”

“What! Do you consider Ram stronger than I? He will not return alive from here. What can he do with his small Vanara army?” retorted Ravana.

Wicked Ravana was heading for his ruin. So, he did not relish anything said for his welfare. He got enraged and said, “I, the ruler of demons, am the most powerful king. You will see how I route the Vanara army and kill Sugreeva, Rama and Lakshmana.”

Then Ravana had consultations with his warriors and made arrangements for the defence of Lanka. General Prahast was given the responsibility of guarding the eastern gate. The southern gate was placed under two brave warriors – Mahodar and Mahaparshva. The western gate was left under the command of Meghanada. Placing the northern gate under two generals – Shuka and Sarana, Ravana decided to get to the roof of his fort in order to observe the strength of Rama’s camp and its arrangements.

As already mentioned, Rama’s army was camping on Mount Suvela, Ravana got to the roof of his fort and had a close look at Rama’s camp.

Seeing Ravana on the roof of his fort, Rama said, “Friend! Look at Ravana there. He is closely watching our army.”

Seeing Ravana on the roof of his fort, Sugreeva could not control himself. In a fit of anger, he leapt from the mountain to where Ravana was standing. With one sudden stroke, he took off Ravana’s crown and threw it down on the roof.

Ravana was highly taken aback by this sudden attack made by Sugreeva.

After this skirmish with Ravana, Sugreeva returned to his camp. Then in consultation with Rama, he divided his army into four divisions and ordered that attacks be made on all the four gates of Lanka.

The Vanara army besieged Lanka on all sides and began to sound war-bugles and raise war-cries – Victory to Rama, Victory to Lakshmana and Victory to Sugreeva.

It sent a wave of fear throughout Lanka. So, Ravana summoned his generals and said, “God has sent us food here itself. Go and devour the Vanaras up.”

Hearing Ravana’s order, the demons fell upon the Vanaras as a kite swoops on a piece of red stone, thinking it to be a piece of flesh. But Rama and Lakshmana killed all the demon soldiers with their arrows.

In a short time, the demons ran helter-skelter out of fear as the clouds scatter away before a strong wind. Cries and bewailings were heard on every side. Children, women and invalid persons shouted in despair and abused Ravana holding him responsible for what was going on.

Then Ravana sent Meghanada to face Rama’s army. The regiment under this son of Ravana fought with a renewed vigour but all to no use. Most of the demon soldiers fell fighting and Meghanada made himself invisible and began to rain arrows on Rama and Lakshmana. Both the brothers fell down senseless on the ground.

Rama and Lakshmana were lying in pools of blood. The magical arrows shot by Meghanada had changed into serpents. Both of them were smarting under acute pain. The Vanara’s felt hurt to see them in this condition. They began to shed tears and formed a cordon round them.

Just then Rama regained consciousness. He remembered Garuda, the vehicle of Lord Vishnu. It came and ate up all the serpents. With the touch of its fearthers, both the brothers became all right. Their wounds healed up as a result of this divine touch.

Garuda told both brothers, “Meghanada rained serpents in the form of arrows on you both. Be careful in future. These demons are very cunning.”
Saying so, Garuda flew away.

As soon as Rama and Lakshmana recovered, the war came to be resumed without delay. Ravana sent his two generals Dhumraksh and Prahast to the battle-field. War cries raised from both sides resounded the sky.

A bitter fight took place between the two generals of Ravana and the Vanara soldiers. Ram and Lakshmana were sitting on the shoulders of Hanuman and fighting the enemy. The Vanaras over-powered the demons and both the generals of Ravana fled away to save their lives. Uprooted trees had also been used in the fight today.

Seeing his generals back, Ravana himself came to the battle-field and challenged Rama in a dreadful voice.

Hearing Ravana’s challenge, Rama began to shower arrows on him. In a short time, Ravana’s chariot broke down and its horses were killed along with the charioteer. Not only this, Ravana’s bow was also broken and his crown fell down on the ground too.

Then like a true warrior Rama said, “I shall not attack you, O Ravana, as long as you take up the new arms of fight with. You seem to be tired also. Go away; I leave you alive.”

Hearing Rama’s words, Ravana stood gaping for words in helplessness. Then bowing his head in shame, he returned to his camp.

On the other hand, Hanuman chased the two generals – Dhumraksh and Prahast. Catching them he hit either of them with his mace and they fell down dead them and there.

 

Having licked dust in the first encounter with Rama, Ravana, summoned his courtiers and said, “I had to taste a defeat at Ram’s hands. So, we must seek Kumbhakarana’s help now. Go and wake him up.”

Kumbhakarana was Ravana’s younger brother. He slept for six months in the year. Drums, shells and bugles had to be sounded in order to wake him up. So, the demon soldiers began to make efforts to rouse him form his slumber. In spite of the best efforts, Kumbhakarana did not get up and remained lying asleep. He looked like a vast hill.

At last elephants were brought. They tossed Kumbhakarana hither and thither with their trunks. It was only then the Kumbhakarana woke up.

Ravana sent Kumbhakarana to the battle-field to fight against Rama. He fell upon the Vanara soldiers and began to kill them ruthlessly. His onslaught routed the Vanara army.

Seeing the Vanara soldiers running in fear, Rama came forward to face Kumbhakarana. He started killing the demons with his arrows. Seeing this, Kumbhakarana thundered in anger and sprang at Rama. But Rama pierced his body with his arrows. Both this arms got severed from the body.

Next Rama severed Kumbhakarana’s head from his body with a fierce stroke. This head, flung away so fiercely, fell before Ravana in his palace.

Ravana got mad to see his brother’s head just as a cobra goes mad when its precious stone gets lost.

Kumbhakarana’s death doubted the spirits of the Vanara soldiers and they fell upon the demons with a renewed vigour. Seeing the demons in dampened spirits, Meghanada came to the battle-field in a chariot with Sita sitting in it. It startled the entire Vanara army and they shouted, “Look there. Is she Sita?”

Shouting like that, the Vanara’s fell upon Meghanada. Seeing the Vanaras advancing towards his chariot, Meghanada drew out his sword and said, “Stop short! If anyone takes even one step further, I shall behead Sita there and now before your eyes. She is at the root of this battle.”

Seeing Meghanada ready to kill Sita, the Vanaras ran to inform Rama and Lakshmana. Meghanada finding time in the absence of the Vanaras decided to perform a brief battle-field Yajna that could make him invincible.

Hearing the news about Sita from the Vanara soldiers, Rama became unconscious. When he came to himself after some time, Vibhishana consoled him saying, “My Lord! She was not real Sita but a magic-created one. He has played this trick to find time to perform a battle-field Yajna that is sure to make him invincible. So, get up and kill him before he is able to complete the sacred ceremony.”

“Lakshmana will do it,” said Rama. Hearing Rama’s words, Lakshmana rushed to the battle-field and challenged Meghanada for a battle. Thus the Yajna remained incomplete and Meghanada got up to faceLakshmana.

But he could not bear the brunt of Lakshmana’s onslaught and fell down dead on the ground. As soon as Meghanada fell down, the Vanara soldiers raised their slogans – Victory to Rama Victory toLakshmana.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

Hardly had Hanuman went over a small distance when a new trouble appeared. A sea-demoness, Sinhika by name, was roaming in search of food. It caught sight of Hanuman’s shadow falling on the sea-waters. It felt pleased to think, “Aha! I am going to get a fine meal today.”

Thinking so, Sinhika caught Hanuman’s shadow. As a result, he began to be drawn towards her mouth by a strange invisible power.

The wicked demoness often drew flying birds to her mouth and made them her food. But Hanuman was not easy to be caught. He hit at the face of the demoness with his foot violently.

Even then Hanuman could not save himself from going into Sinhika’s belly. But as soon as he entered her belly, her anger knew no bounds. He tore open her belly and came out safe and sound.

When Hanuman came out, Sursa, a resident of the underworld gave a test to him. Hanuman came out successful in this test. Then he bowed low before Sursa and took leave of her saying. “Mother! I take leave of you now.”

Sursa blessed Hanuman and said, “Gods had sent me to test your strength and wisdom, O Hanuman! You have come out brilliantly successful in this test. You are a man of prowess and talent. So, you will easily accomplish all the jobs assigned to you by Rama.”

Saying these words, Sursa went away and Hanuman was able to cross the sea without facing any other impediment.

Having crossed the ocean, Hanuman reached Lanka. The fourwall round the town was fairly high. It was made of gold studded with different types of precious stones. Ocean waves smote on this wall on all sides and demons with fearful gigantic bodies stood guard at the gates leading into the town.

Hanuman decided to enter the town in a clandestine manner at night so that the guards might not be able to see him. He changed himself into a demon and entered the town of Lanka. After roaming in almost all parts of the town, Hanuman got to the roof of a fort. Standing on the turret of this fort, he observed the grandeur of the town.

Thinking of his mission, Hanuman got plunged into deep thoughts. “How shall I be able to locate Ram’s wife Sita in such a big town?” he said to himself.

Roaming hither and thither stealthily, Hanuman came to Ravana’s palace. There he saw a small garden just beside the royal abode. Going into the garden, Hanuman climbed up a tall tree. Perching on a high branch, he thought, “Can Sita be here in this garden?” Amidst such reflections, he passed the night there in the tree.

At dawn, Hanuman had a close look around the garden and saw Sita sitting under a tree. His joy knew no bounds. He thought, “She is sitting in a pensive mood – probably lost in thoughts of her dear husband. She must be Sita and none else. But why is she surrounded by a number of demonesses?”

Then suddenly he heard a demoness say, “Sita! Your start is at the zenith as the ruler of Lanka craves to make you his queen. Shed your sorrow and dress up in this valuable royal robe. Ravana, our King, is about to come. Be ready to welcome him with open arms.”

Just then Ravana stepped into the garden where Sita was sitting. Seeing him, all the demoness guards bowed low and left the garden. Coming to Sita, Ravana said, “Why do you keep engrossed in the thoughts of Rama who possess little prowess, courage, wealth and fame. He is just a non-entity when compared to me. You have no to her choice but to be my queen.”

Seeing Ravana advancing towards her, Sita placed a straw between herself and him and said. “As the sun and its light are inseparable, nobody can separate my husband from me. You had better hand me over to my dear husband and ask for his pardon. He is very broad-minded and merciful. He will certainly excuse you.”

Hearing Sita’s sermonising words, Ravana got enraged and he said, “Your sweet words have incited my anger not sympathy. I cannot brook any more impudence. I give you two month’s time. If you do not agree to marry me by then, my chef will cut you to pieces and cook your flesh for me.”

“Mind you fool! One who insults a true wife , cannot escape a dishonourable death even if he happens to drink nectar,” retorted Sita defiantly.

“Haven’t you heard of my power? I can lift the earth with my hands. I can pierce through the sun and I can defeat the death-god even. Can your husband Ram face me. then? Erase him out of your memory.”

“You foolish demon! Can a fire-fly’s cold light make a lily bloom? No, never. Why don’t you forget that you have abducted me with deception? How cowardly you are! Why don’t you die of shame. O abominable Wretch!” Sita’s poignant reproach made Ravana answerless and he went away cursing himself in rage.

As soon as Ravana left, a number of demonesses came into the garden and began to frighten and threaten Sita. Some of them tried to persuade her to accept Ravana as her husband.

One of them said, “Why don’t you try to please our king, Ravana?”

“How dare you defy his order? asked the other.

“If ou marry our king, you will be the queen of Lanka. So, you must agree to marry him,” suggested the third.

But one of them was named Trijata. She was very kind, wise and God-fearing. She told her companions, “Friends! I have had a very fearful and unpleasant dream at night – A huge monkey came from somewhere. He bent down entire Lanka and killed Ravana’s army.

So, I suggest to you all not to tease or trouble Sita in any way otherwise we shall certainly land in some trouble.”

The demonesses having gone, Sita was lost in grief and said to herself, “I have no alternative now. I must end my life some way or other.”

By now Hanuman had shifted to the same tree under which Sita was sitting. Seeing her aggrieved due to separation from Ram, Hanuman began to narrate Ram’s story in a gentle voice, “Obeying his father’s order, Rama proceeded to the forest along with his brother Lakshmana and wife Sita. Sita was abducted by Ravana, ruler of Lanka. A Vanara, friendly to Ram, set out to trace Sita and it is a matter of delight that he has found her today.”

Hearing Hanuman’s words, Sita got startled and asked Hanuman who was sitting in the tree, “Who is there narrating the greatness of my husband in this land of demons?”

“I am a humble servant of Rama,” replied Hanuman.

Then Hanuman handed over Ram’s ring to Sita and said, “Here is the ring which Rama gave me to you so that you may believe me.”

Hanuman’s words imparted great satisfaction to Sita and she said, “How is my husband, Hanuman? How is Lakshmana? Is everything all right?”

“Both of them are all right yet they are always worried on your score. But keep patience, you respected lady! These demons are like moths while Ram’s bow shoots fire-spitting arrows. Had they got any clue about your whereabouts earlier, you would have been rescued by now. Anyhow, don’t worry! They will soon reach here along with their army and rescue you after killing all the demons.”

Thus knowing about Ram’s well-being, Sita felt very delighted.

But looking at Hanuman, Sita expressed her doubt and said, “Ram’s soldiers must be small like you while the demons are very strong and furious. How will you be able to beat them?”

Hearing these words, Hanuman assumed a gigantic form which was very imposing and fearful. Seeing it, Sita was convinced of the strength of Rama’s army. She blessed Han Hanuman saying, “May you never get old! May you be an immortal man with noblest values!”

Suddenly Hanuman caught sight of trees laden with ripe juicy fruits. He said to Sita, “I am feeling awfully hungry. Seeing these fruits my mouth has begun to water. May I eat a few of them in order to stay my stomach?”

“But the garden is being guarded by fearful demons. They will not allow you to do so. How will you face them single handed?” Sita expressed her doubt.

“I don’t fear them at all especially when your blessings are with me.” Saying so, Hanuman bowed low before Sita and went to the fruit-trees. He started plucking and eating fruits. Not only this, he uprooted some trees as well.

The demons on guard came and prevented Hanuman from damaging the garden. But Hanuman attacked them and killed many of them. Those who escaped his wrath ran away in fear and went to Ravana’s court. They complained, “Your Majesty! A huge monkey has come into the royal garden. It has done a lot of damage to the garden by uprooting trees and destroying fruit. Also, he has put to death many a soldier who was guarding the garden.” Hearing this, Ravana sent his youngest son – Akshaya Kumar – along with some select soldiers to chastise and catch Hanuman.

Seeing them, Hanuman uprooted a tree and threw it on Ravana’s soldiers. Akshaya Kumar and some other soldiers were killed and the remaining soldiers fled for their lives.

Reaching the court, the demons said to Ravana, “Your Majesty! That monkey is very, very brave and strong. He has killed your son and many soldiers as well. It does not seem so easy to overpower him.”

Hearing of Akshaya’s death, Ravana was red with anger and her ordered his elder son Meghanada, “Go and bring the monkey in chians here. Let me see after all, who he is.”

“Here I go , sir,” said Meghanada and he marched to the royal garden with a strong force.

Hanuman again attacked the demons. Some of them were killed while others were beaten. Seeing this, Meghanada started showering arrows on Hanuman but they could not harm even slightly. Uprooting a tree, Hanuman flung it on Meghanada who was beside himself with anger.

Meghanada, then, made use of a Divine Weapon that trapped Hanuman and he fell down on the ground. But he smiled in his lips and thought, “This silly demon doesn’t know at all that I can easily get rid of this trap. But I want to be face to face with Ravana. So, I’ll not break it.”

Seeing Hanuman lying helpless, Meghanada ordered his soldiers, “Catch hold of this mischievous monkey and present him before the king of Lanka.”

“Yes sir.” Saying so, the soldiers made a cordon about Hanuman and caught hold of him. They took him to the court of Ravana.

Meghanada was extremely happy at his success. In a air of pride, he made for his palace.

Seeing Hanuman presented before him, Ravana flew into a rage and he said, “You Wretched Monkey! Who are you? Why have you damaged my garden? Do you not know me? Don’t you fear death?”

“I am a messenger of King Sugreeva. You were on good days so far, O King of Lanka. But these days are over and your bad days have begun. You must atome for you sins now. You had better return Sita to her husband Rama and ask for his pardon for what you did,” argued Hanuman.

Hearing hits, Ravana was beside himself with rage and ordered his soldiers, “Take away this Wretch and put him to death. He hasn’t yet known about my power.

Hearing Ravana’s order, his wise brother – Vibhishana – said, “Brother! It is against all norms to kill a messenger. Be kind enough to set him free.”

“All right; don’t kill him but only mutilate him. Wrap a few rags round the end of his tale and set them on fire. Then lead him through the streets of my capital,” Ravana ordered his soldiers.

Hanuman did not say anything in reply to what Ravana had said. Curling his tail round, he kept sitting on it quite calmly.

The demons tried to lift Hanuman up from his place but they could not. Seeing this, Ravana ordered some more soldiers to help their companions and obey his order of setting Hanumans tail on fire.

So, a large number of Ravana’s soldiers fell upon Hanuman. Lifting him up, they began to wrap rags doused in kerosene. But Hanuman increased the length of his tail every now and then. It created a problem and more rags were wrapped on Hanumans tail which was now set on fire.

Fearful flames came out of the tail-fire and all the demons present there clapped to see it. They danced in joy indeed. Ravana said, “When this monkey returns to his master without his tail, his master will be highly ashamed. He may come here in a fit of rage. We shall remain anxious to see him.”

The demons tied both the hands of Hanuman with a string and led him through the streets of Lanka. As soon as the procession reached the central place of the town, a large crowd gathered to see Hanuman. People clapped to see his burning tail and broke into reals of laughter. Some mischievous people also tried to tease and kick Hanuman.

When the procession reached the gate of Ravana’s capital, Hanuman minimized his size and got rid of all strings and traps.

Seeing this sudden change in Hanuman’s size, children and women of the demons got frightened. A strong wind began to blow. Hanuman gave out loud laughter and began to frisk here and there. His roar sent a wave of fear among all present there. Women and children began to weep bitterly saying, “Who will save us from this monkey? We had already said that this on key is not an ordinary monkey. He must be a god who has come to finish us all.”

Hanuman began to jump on the roofs of houses, thus setting every house on fire, one after the other. Getting to the top of a high attic, Hanuman again assumed his gigantic form and began to dance round and round. The flames from his long burning tail set the entire town ablaze.

Even Ravana’s palace caught fire. There were cries and bewailings everywhere around. Women began to run helter-skelter with their babies in their arms. Only on house was safe. It belonged to Vibhishana, Ravana’s younger brother and a devout devotee of Rama. It was no less than a miracle. As a result, even the citizens of Lanka came to have a devotional liking for Ram.

Troubled by the furious fire, the demons of Lanka clamoured for safety. They did not know what to do in order to save themselves from the dangerous fire that had burnt almost the entire town to ashes.

At last the people went to their king Ravana and requested him, “Your Majesty! save us from this dreadful fire. It has burnt everything we had.”

But Ravana was helpless. He was watching his burning capital with wide open eyes. Entire Lanka was in flames. In a matter of minutes everything was going to be reduced to ashes. The king did not know what to do.

People began to whisper among themselves, “Our king is a wicked person. He has done a grave sin by abducting the wife of another person. This calamity is undoubtedly the result of the misdeed committed by our sinful ruler, Ravana.”

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

“I do have a purpose in knowing your identity, O Warriors! A very noble and saintly Vanara, Sugreeva by name, resides here on this hill. He has been exiled from his homeland by his powerful brother Vali, the local king. He is on bad days indeed. I want to know whether you are looking for Sugreeva,” argued the Brahmana.

“Certainly, O holy-man! We want to see him. Can you guide us to him?” asked Ram. “Why not? I can personally escort you both to his presence but only when I have known fully about you,” replied the Brahmana.

Rama, then, introduced himself to the Brahmana and Lakshmana related the entire story starting from Ram’s exile to Sita’s abduction. Then expressing his doubt, Lakshmana said, “You do not seem to be what you look. A person who has not studied Rigveda, who hasn’t practised the teachings of the Yajurveda, who has not gone through the Samveda cannot speak such a refined language. So, please be kind enough to reveal your true identity.”

Hearing these words, the Brahmana folded his hands and said, “Your guess is absolutely correct, O Lakshmana. I am Hanuman, a minister of Sugreeva and I have been sent by him to get your secret, i.e. to ascertain that you are his brother Vali’s spies or not. So, I had to appear before you in the guise of a Brahmana.” Saying so, Hanuman came to his real form and lay prostrate at Rama’s feet.

Now Hanuman narrated the woeful story of Sugreeva to both the brothers and said, “Our king Sugreeva is also living in exile. His elder brother Vali did gross injustice to my king. He forced him to leave his capital, Kishkindha, and also usurped his queen Roma. So, Sugreeva wants to extend a hand of friendship towards you”.

“All right; lead us to your king, then” retorted Ram.

Hanuman, then disclosed two ways that led to Sugreeva’s abode. One of the ways was very long but easy while the other was very short but very difficult. Then he seated both the brothers on his shoulders and said, “Don’t be amazed, dear Lakshmana. I have a boon that enables me to change myself to whatever form I like.”

Hanuman began to fly towards the Mount Rishyamook with both brothers on his shoulders. On the way he showed them plants laden with flowers, rapidly flowing waters of brooks, caves, chief mountain peaks and charming valleys. Also, he showed them lakes filled with garlic-coloured waters with half-bloomed buds in them. Cranes, swans, water-fowls and several other water-birds were frolicking in water. Soft grass-eating wild deer were either grazing soft blades of grass or were resting after having had their fill.

Here and there were seen Vanara warriors with gigantic muscular bodies. One of them was Angad, the son of Vali. He was gazing at the movements of Hanuman with a keen sight

Leaving Ram and Lakshmana at he abode of Sugreeva on Mount Rishyamuk, Hanuman himself proceeded to Malayachal to inform Sugreeva of the arrival of both the Koshala princes. Reaching there, he said, “My Lord! Ram, known for his indomitable courage and invincible warriorship, has reached your abode along with this brother Lakshmana. Both of them are descendants of Ikshvaku, the Great.”

Then Hanuman came to Rama and took both the brothers to his master- Sugreeva. Then introducing them to Sugreeva, he said: They are sons of King Dashrath of Ayodhya. Rama is known for his dutifulness. He has come to his forest to fulfil the promise of his father. When they were staying at Panchvati in the Dandak Forest, Ravana, the ruler of Lanka, abducted Ram’s wife Sita in their absence. During the course of their search for her, they have reached here and want to make friends with you.”

Having heard what Hanuman had told, Surgreeva greeted both the brothers and entertained them in a befitting manner. Then he said affectionately, I am a mere Vanara while you are men. IT is so kind of you to extend a hand of friendship towards me. I am convinced that I will be the gainer as a result of this friendly bond.”

Rama felt highly delighted to hear Sugreeva’s words and he embraced him. Describing his sad tale to Rama, tears welled up in Sugreeva’s eyes and he said, “My elder brother Vali has turned me out of his kingdom and usurped my wife too. I am residing here in utter fright and embarrassment. So, assure me of your help so that I may be able to shed all fear and worry.”

Hanuman made a fire by rubbing two pieces of wood together with a view to give the friendship between Rama and Sugreeva a sound footing. Then worshipping the god of fire with flowers he placed it between the two would-be friends. Ram and Sugreeva took oaths of true friendship while going round this sacred fire.

The ceremony having been performed, Sugreeva said to Ram delightfully, “We shall stand by each other through thick and thin.”

Rama felt overjoyed to hear these words and said, “O King of Vanaras! I believe that a true friend always does good to his friends. I take pledge before this sacred fire that I shall kill Vali, the usurper of your throne and wife.”

Ram’s words sent a wave of bliss in Sugreeva’s mind and his face bloomed like a flower.

Hearing Ram’s assurance, Sugreeva said to Ram, “Friend! Hanuman has told me your woeful story. I too take an oath that I shall leave no stone unturned to find out your wife Sita wherever she happens to be. So, I would request you to shed your grief of separation from your spouse.”

Then Sugreeva started narrating the happening of a few days back, “One day I saw that a fearful demon was carrying away a woman forcibly. Now I am convinced that she must be Sita and none else because bewailing bitterly, she was calling out the names Rama and Lakshmana. Seeing me, she threw her ornaments they are still with me. I’ll be back with them in no time.”

As soon as Ram and Lakshmana saw the ornaments, they recognised them.

Next day, in accordance with Ram’s pledge, Sugreeva and his men made for Kishkindha and set up their camp in a dense forest near the town. Directed by Ram, Sugreeva went to Vali’s place and challenged him for a duel. Though Vali beat Sugreeva in the first round of the duel, yet he did not give up because he was sure that Ram would certainly kill Vali.

Ram, standing behind a big tree, aimed at Vali again and again, but he could not succeed in shooting an arrow. So, Sugreeva badly defeated by Vali came back to Ram and said, “Friend! Vali kept beating me and you kept looking at us. I had told you that Vali is another name for death.”

“Sugreeva! Both of you have so similar faces that I could not locate Vali. So, I did not shoot the arrow,” retorted Ram.

Ram put a garland round Sugreeva’s neck and said, “This garland will help me to locate you easily. So, I’ll not be confused this time. Rest assured! Vali will not return alive today. Your fear and his enmity both will come to an end in the battle –field as soon as I shoot an arrow at him today. So, shed all fear and worry once for all now.”

Sugreeva replied, “Friend! He has come out victorious in many a battle. He always aims at a win and truly speaking, he has never seen a defeat so far. He has a flair for battles indeed.”

“You are right, frined. But remember that a person who is proud of his strength cannot brook insulting words from his enemy especially when he is in the company of women. So, go once again and challenge Vali for a duel. This time, he will not return alive in any case,” said Ram assuringly.

Seeing Sugreeva coming towards him, Vali’s eyes became red in anger and brandishing a fist, he said to Sugreeva, “I will do away with you with only one blow.” Saying so, he attacked Sugreeva.

Sugreeva did not lag behind. So, both the brother got engaged into a fierce scuffle.

Just then Ram shot an arrow at Vali, who having been hit, fell down with a thud.

Rama accompanied by Lakshmana now went near Vali and placed his head in his lap.

Vali asked Ram, “Do you get some credit by killing me like that. You have killed me in a deceptive manner. It won’t bring you any laurel. I had done you no harm. Why, after all, did you kill me?”

After Vali’s death, Sugreeva was declared king of Kishkindha and Vali’s son Angad was appointed his hair-apparent. Hanuman asked Rama to participate in the auspicious ceremony but Ram refused to go to Kishkindha saying, “I cannot enter any village or town till my exile comes to an end. So, take Lakshmana with you and ask him to perform the ceremony of coronation.

Sugreeva, along with Angad and his five ministers reached Kishkindha and they were received with open arms by everyone.

Then a golden throne was placed on a stage decorated with flowers and valuable velvety sheets. Sugreeva was seated on it and Lakshmana, after putting a tilak on his forehead, placed the crown on Sugreeva’s head.

Sugreeva, having his throne restored, indulged in pleasures and forgot the promise given to Rama. Seeing this, Hanuman went to Sugreeva and reminding him of the word given by him to Ram, he said, “My Lord! All this stately graduer is here only because of Ram. It is a pity that you have forgotten him in tracing his wife Sita.”

Sugreeva’s eyes opened and he got frightened and said, “Hanuman! Pleasure had made me blind and I came to for=get my promise. Send our men in all directions so that we may find out Sita as early as possible and be able to inform Ram of it.”

Hearing this, Hanuman left eh palace and collected a number of select men to be put on the job of tracing Sita. Then he read out to them the order of the Vanara King.

Sugreeva with all his ministers and the search party, consisting of select persons, came to Ram. Seeing them, Rama smiled and said, “I love you as I love my brother Bharata, O Sugreeva. I request you to take immediate steps for tracing my wife Sita.”

Hearing this, Sugreeva called Sujan, Angad, Jamvant, Hanuman, Nala and Neel to him and said, “All of you must go towards the South and look for Sita everywhere.”

Before the search party left, Rama gave his ring to Hanuman, and said in a humble voice, it is only you who can trace Sita. Take this ring. Seeing it, Sita will at once believe that you are my messenger.”

“Bless me, O Lord, so that I may be successful.” Saying these words and taking the ring from Rama, Hanuman left the place along with other members of the search-party.

Receiving the order of Sugreeva and getting proper instructions from Hanuman, the selected party left Kishkindha and they scattered in different directions. Each of them enthusiastic to have the credit of trading Sita.

Sugreeva’s men began to look for Sita in forests, towns and capitals of various kingdoms. They had to face untold suffering in doing this hard job. But they did not lose heart.

The dense forests around the Vindhya Range were not easily penetrable. So, it was a dangerous job to cross these forests in order to get to South India.

Ordered by Sugreeva, Hanuman accompanied Angad and crossed over to Sought India. They conducted a thorough search for Sita but with no result. Then suddenly they saw Sampati, Jatayu’s brother, who was sitting on the branch of a tree gazing at them.

Sampati asked Hanuman, “Are you looking for Sita? I have seen Ravana carrying her to her island – Lanka.”

Having learnt this, the search-party advanced towards the ocean in the south. But the sight of the raging waves of the endless ocean dampened their spirits. They realised that it was almost impossible for then to cross the ocean and reach Lanka.

As mentioned above, the sight of the vast sea had thrown cold water on the spirits of the search-party. They all sad dejected on the sea-shore.

One member of the search-party said, “This ocean stands between us and Lanka. How shall we cross it after all?”

“Quite impossible! We can never cross this sea,” said the other.

Then Jamvant said, “We must find some way to get across the sea. I believe one of us can leap over the sea and reach Lanka to settle scores with Ravana.”

“Who is that, sir?” one of the hearers asked Jamvant. “That who can take the longest leap,” replied Jamvant.

Jamvant collected all the members of the search-party and asked them, “Let me know how far each of you can leap.”

Neel replied, “I can leap over a distance of 300 miles.”

“I can go 400 miles,” said Nala.

“But I can go 500 miles,” assured Angad.

Jamvant encouraged all the members of the search-party and said, “Comrades! All of you are firm-minded and courageous. You are members of a warrior clan. We want to return after being successful. Which of us can please Ram, Lakshmana and Sugreeva with his unique exploit of crossing the sea?”

But none of the search-party was strong enough to do the needful. Only Hanuman had the calibre to do it. So, Jamvant went to him and said, “Hanuman! Only you can do this difficult job, I believe. Why are you silent then? Are you not aware of your capacity and strength?”

But Hanuman kept quiet.

Jamvant once again incited Hanuman and said, “You are strong as Sugreeva and as brilliant as Rama and Lakshmana. You are the strongest, the wisest of all the Vanaras and you are full of immense patience too. Why don’t you offer yourself for the hob of crossing the ocean?”

But Hanuman remained unmoved.

Jamvant then related a story of Hanuman’s childhood, “Once you were playing in the lap of your mather – Anjana. Seeing the crimson coloured rising sun, you took him for some ripe fruit and jumped into the shy with a view to catching it. As soon as you spread your hand to grab the sun, Lord Indra got enraged and he threw his vajra at you. It made you unconscious and you fell down back on the ground. Your father-Wind-god could not tolerate it and the wind came to a standstill. All the three worlds were going to be finished.

The gods, then, approached Lord Shiva who consoled them and suggested to them, “Let us all go to Wind-god and request him to be kind.”

“All the gods went to Wind-god and said, “Your son swallowed the sun and you have brought the winds to a halt. All the three worlds are going to finish. Be kind enough to let the winds blow so that no one dies. It is sure to bring fame to you, sir. Not only this, we are ready to grant you a boon of your own choice.”

The Wind-god agreed and he said, “O gods! Bless my son so that he may possess undying fame and invincible strength and also make him a sea of wisdom as well.”

“Then all the gods showered boons on you. Brahma gave you his power while Agni enabled you to remain unharmed in a fire even. Indira made your body impervious as a rock while Varuna gave you the boon of crossing seas etc, without any difficulty.”

“So, be up and doing, Hanuman! Leap over this sea. You are master of a unique speed,” said Jamvant pointing to the ocean.

Hearing Jamvant’s words, Hanuman got up and said, “Jamvant! I shall fly to Lanka and return after tracing Ram’s wife Sita.” Saying so, Hanuman assumed a gigantic form and leapt into the sky.

Seeing Hanuman leaping into the sky, tears welled up in Angad’s eyes and he said, “We are between the devil and the deep sea. We have not been able to trace Sita. If we go back unsuccessful, King Sugreeva will behead us all.”

Hearing Angad’s words, all the members of the search-party spoke in one voice, “We will not return to Kishkindha until and unless we get some news about Sita. Hanuman has gone to Lank to trace Sita. We must stay here and wait for him till he returns.”

Hanuman flew at the top of his speed over the sea. Seeing his courage and speed, all the Vanaras forsook their sorrow and began to dance in joy. Praising Hanuman in various ways, they began to shout in joy. They said, “O Brave Hanuman! You have relieved all our sorrow. We, all the members of the search-party, crave for your success in the mission that you have undertaken. Each of us will keep standing on one leg till you return because our safety depends on your success in tracing Sita. May you be crowned with success!”

Seeing Hanuman flying fast over the sea and seeing Angad in deep sorrow, Jamvant started cheering him up through funny tales.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

Having left Chitrakoot, Rama reached the hermitage of Saint Atri along with Lakshmana and Sita. The saint and his wife Ansuya welcomed them warmly and entertained them as best as they could. Having stayed there for a few days, Ram asked for the Saint’s leave to go elsewhere. The saint said, “Ram! You are omniscient. How can I ask you to leave this place?”

When Ram left Saint Atri’s hermitage, a number of hermits accompanied him. On the way they came across a pile of human-fossils. Ram felt very amazed to see them and he asked the saints about them. One of them said, “These fossils are of several saints who lived around this place. The local demons ate them up and threw away their bones here.” All the saints requested Ram for protection against the cruel demons as well.”

Having gone a little further, they came across a demon named Virad. Ram killed him then and there.

Now Ram came to the hermitage of Saint Agastya and sought his blessings. The saint gave them a few divine weapons as well.

Ram, then said to the saint, “I am so grateful to you for what you have done for me affectionately. Be kind enough to suggest a suitable place to reside.” The saint said, “There is a place Panchvati about 4 miles away. You can live there peacefully. You will be safe from every harm there.”

So Ram, along with his brother and wife proceeded to Panchvati. On the way, they met Jatayu, the king of Vultures. Jatayu introduced himself to Ram as a friend of King Dashrath and requested Ram to allow him to be with him. He assured Ram that he would be of immense use to him in the forest. Ram agreed and Jatayu accompanied him.

Reaching the Panchvati area, Lakshmana chose a suitable site and built a hut for Ram and Sita to live in. Ram, when he saw the hut, was extremely happy. He praised Lakshmana a lot and suggested to him, “Let us collect some flowers and worship the gods in the hut before making it our home.”

Both the brothers had a bath in the Godavari and then collecting a few lotus flowers, they worshipped the gods inside the hut.

The hut was spacious and comfortable as well. So, they began to live there in peace. Lakshmana used to bring fuel wood from the forest while Sita used to cook food.

Ram’s stay at Panchvati made the saints of the area quite safe and so they were very happy.

Shoorpnakha was a sister of Ravana, the king of Lanka. She was a crooked, cruel and lascivious demon-ness. One day she chanced to pass by Panchvati where she happened to see Ram and Lakshmana. Seeing them she thought, “Aha! How handsome they both are! If I could marry one of them, I would be happy all through my life.”

Thinking so, she came near the Ram’s hut and changed her body. She came into the form of a very charming lady and hid herself behind a tree so that nobody should be able to see her.

Now Shoorpnakha came to Ram and said, “Who are you, Youngman? What for have you come to his land of the demons?”

“I am the son of King Dashrath, the ruler of Ayodhya. I have been exiled for fourteen years. I want to pass this period her in peace. But who are you, O Gentle Lady? “said Rama.

“I am Shoorpnakha, the sister of Ravana, the powerful ruler of Lanka. The governors of the area are my cousins – Khara and Dushan. They both are matchless warriors. I want to marry you. I am by all means a suitable match for you,” replied Shoorpnakha.

“But I am already married. Here is my wife Sita. Well, that Youngman is my brother. He is a nice match for you in every respect.” Ram suggested by way of joke.

Now Shoorpnakha went to Lakshmana and said, “I have not been able to find a matching life-partner for myself anywhere. Now I have come to you. I see that you are the most handsome man and I am the most charming lady on this earth. God must have made us for each other. Let us marry and live happily.” “You are a princess while I am a mere servant of that man. Is it proper for you to wed me?”

“No’ Saying so, Shoorpnakha flew into a rage. She came back to her demonic form and returned to Ram and said. “I see that you are not ready to wed me only because of this ugly wife of yours. So, I must devour her up and then you will marry me.” With these words, Shoorpnakha advanced towards Sita and pounced on her.

Seeing the fearful demon-ness felling upon her, Sita exclaimed in fear, “Lakshmana! Save me from her.”

Hearing Sita’s shouts, Lakshmana at once ran towards Shoorpnakha with a dagger in hand and cut off her nose. He said, “Here is your reward for attacking Sita.”

Shoorpnakha ran for her life and weeping bitterly, she came to her cousins – Khara and Dushan. She burst out, “Down with your strength and power. Just see my condition. Can’t you avenge my insult?”

Coming to know of the entire story, Khara and Dushan marched towards Panchvati with a large army. Seeing the demons, Ram said to Lakshmana, Panchvati with a large army. Seeing the demons, Ram said to Lakshmana, “Brother! Take Sita to a safe place. I shall face these demons.”

Lakshmana took Sita into a nearby cave. A messenger of Khara came to Ram and said, “My master Khara has ordered you to leave this place at once.” “We are warriors. We roam in the forest for game. We are always ready to face true warriors and never fear them. A true warrior, when he proceeds to the battlefield, never takes recourse to tricks. It is sheer cowardice,” retorted Ram.

The messenger told Khara all what Ram had said. So, both the demon brothers attacked Ram with a 1400-strong force of demons. But Ram made short work of them all except one demon named Akampan, who fled away to save his life. Khara and Dushan were killed in the action too.

Ram’s victory over the demons of Panchvati made the people living there quite safe and fearless. They had seen the battle between Ram and the demons. But when they saw that the demons started killing one another, they came to believe that it was a miracle on the part of Ram.

Akampan proceeded towards the South in his aerial Chariot. Ram saw him running from the battle-field, but did not shoot an arrow at him out of pity. Meanwhile Lakshmana came out of the cave along with Sita. They returned to their hut.

Akampan went direct to Ravana, the King of Lanka, and said, “Victory to Ravana, the Great! But I am pained to inform that your brothers Khara and Dushan have been killed by a prince of the Koshala kingdom.”

Hearing Akampan’s words, Ravana was startled and he said, “My brothers were killed by a man! It is just impossible. If it is true, that prince had signed his death warrant. I shall not allow him to remain alive.”

Akampan at once retorted, “O Great King! You are mistaken. Even gods cannot kill Ram. There is only one way to kill him and that is to abduct his wife whom he loves more than his life. So, I suggest to you to carry away Sita. Ram will die of the sorrow due to separation for her.”

“All right! I must do it then. I shall go to Mareech for help.” Saying so, Ravana adjourned his court and went to his palace.

Next day Ravana boarded his air-bus named Pushpak and went to Mareech who had turned an ascetic. King Ravana told him the entire story and explained to him how he was to help him. But Mareech said, “The friend who has incited you to abduct Sita is certainly your foe. So, I advise you not to invite enmity with Rama who is a true warrior. He kills demons as easily as he kills deer for game.”

“I agree with you, Mareech.” Saying so Ravana got up.

“Go and rule in peace. Enjoy your stately comforts and give up the idea of enmity with Ram for ever. It is essentially good for you and for the welfare of your clan,” said Mareech to Ravana who returned to Lanka.

Hardly had Ravana stepped into his palace when his sister Shoorpnakha reached there. Bewailing bitterly she said to Ravana, “Just see; how have I been disgraced by the two princes of Ayodhya. Not only this, they have killed your brothers – Khara and Dushan too. If you do not avenge my disgrace and the death of your brothers, men and gods will become fearless. But I am sorry to observe that you have ignored the welfare of your subjects, clan and kingdom. You are always drunk and lost in pleasure while your enemies are hovering around you.”

Hearing these words, Ravana again flew into a rage and said, “You are right, sister. I must go to Mareech for help.” Saying so, he returned to Mareech.

Seeing Ravana coming again, he saw through the matter and said, “Ravana! The biggest sin on this earth is to cast an evil eye on the wife of another person.”

Hearing this, Ravana got mad in anger and roared, “You Fool! How dare you advice me? Who else is as powerful as I?”

“Nobody indeed, “replied Mareech.

“Listen, then. You have got to change yourself into a deer so that Ram feels allured to follow you and kill you. In his absence, I shall carry away Sita. Mind that if you did not help me, I shall sever your head from your body just now,” said Ravana.

Mareech saw that his death was sure in either case. So, he decided to be killed by Ram. He said, “Alright, friend! I am ready to help you. But remember one thing that when a man falls on bad days, he ignores the counsel of his wise friends as well.”

Rama, along with his brother and wife, was passing his days happily at Panchvati. The episode of Shoorpnakha was a has-been now. Just then Mareech and Ravana came to Panchvati. Ravana said to Mareech, “Your task is to attract the two brothers away from their hit.”

Mareech changed himself into a beautiful deer and began to roam near Ram’s hut. Seeing the dear, Sita said to Ram, “Look darling, at that deer. How beautiful it looks with its golden skin and horns!”

“Yes, the deer is certainly unique,” retorted Ram nodding in assent. Just then Lakshmana said, “Brother! This deer cannot be real. T must be a demon who has come here in the form of a deer to trick us one way or the other.”

But Sita did not heed what Lakshmana had said. She insisted on having that deer dead or alive. Ram lifted his bow and arrows and ran after the deer that led him quite far away from the hut. As soon as Ram shot an arrow at the deer, it came to its real form. While falling down on the ground, Mareech cried, “Sita!!! Lakshmana!!!”

When Sita heard the cry, she felt uneasy and said to Lakshmana, “It seems that your brother is in some trouble. Go and help him at once.”

Lakshmana was in a fix but Sita compelled him to leave the hut . So Lakshmana drew a circle round the hut and said, “Dear sister-in-law-! Never come out of this line. I am going to look for my brother.” Saying so, he proceeded into the forest.

Finding Sita alone, Ravana changed himself into a saint and went near the hut. Looking hither and thither, he advanced towards the hut with a view to begging alms. But when he got near the circle, he was startled. As soon as his foot touched the line, a fearful fire broke out of it. He withdrew his step at once and said, “Gentle lady! We don’t accept bound alms. If you are to give me something, come out of this circle otherwise I shall return empty –handed.

Sita was in a fix, but she same out of the circle with alms in her hand. Ravana at once grabbed her. Sita exclaimed in anger, “Who are you?” How dare you touch me?”

“I am Ravana, the king of Lanka.” Saying so, he came to his real form.

Ravana’s chariot was standing at a distance. He lifted Sita and putting her in the chariot drove the chariot back along an aerial path. Sita cried for help, “Ram! Save me from this cruel demon.”

“I am Ravana, the ruler of Lanka. I’ll see who dares to come and rescue you from my grips,” said Ravana.

Sita was frightened and she began to bewail. Even tress and stones were moved to pity after hearing Sita’s bewailings. Jatayu, the king of vultures, heard Sita’s cries and recognising her voice, he said, “My daughter! Don’t worry. I am here to kill this demon.” Saying so, Jatayu pounced on Ravana and said, “You wretch! Stop your chariot at once. Don’t you know me? Stop if you reckon yourself a warrior.”

Lakshmana had been able to locate his brother in the forest. Ram asked him in surprise, “You! Here! Where is Sita?”

“Brother! We heard your cry for help. I had to come to your help on Sita’s insistence,” retorted Lakshmana.

“I never called out to anyone. Your doubt was correct. That deer was not a deer indeed. It was the dreaded demon – Mareech.” Saying so, Ram said, ”When I followed the deer, it ran with the speed of wind. I shot an arrow at it and it came to its feal form of Mareech who cried out for help calling your and Sita’s names. The demon is no more now. So, we must march back to the hut.”

Ram and Lakshmana came to the hut but they found no sign of Sita there. They felt worried and went about looking for her but all of no avail. Ram felt extremely unhappy. So Lakshmana said, “Don’t lose hope so soon, Brother. She might have gone into the forest or to the river. Let us go and see.” Saying so Lakshmana, along with Ram, went southwards looking for Sita.

Going over a considerable distance, they found Jatayu lying half dead on the ground. They ran to him and recognised him. He said, “Lakshmana! He is Jatayu, our father’s friend.” Saying so, both the brothers sat beside the dying vulture.

Then Jatayu told Ram, “When I saw that Ravana was forcibly carrying Sita, I pounced on the cruel demon. Finding me as fearful as death, Ravana got plunged into worry and murmured, “Oh! Wherefrom has this cruel vulture come? I flew into a rage and dragged Ravana outside his chariot using my strong claws. Not only this, I pierced his body with my sharp strong beak. I rescued Sita and was about to move back with her when Ravana attacked me with his sword and cut off my wings. I fell down on the ground uttering your name.”

Then Ram asked, “Where has Ravana taken Sita to? Let me know at once,” “That I don’t know,” retorted Jatayu.

Relating the story of his scuffle with Ravana, Jatayu said, “seeing me helpless, Ravana once again put Sita into his chariot and moved on. Sita went on throwing her bangles and ornaments on the ground.”
“Who is the Ravana, after all. Let me know,” asked Ram.

Jatayu was just on the verge of death. So he could speak a few words with difficulty. He said, “Ravana is the king of demons and Vishrava’s son.” Saying so, Jatayu breathed his last in Ram’s lap.

Jatayu’s death made Rama even more restless. He said, “I salute you again and again, O Great Vulture. I revere you as much as I do my father.” After it, both the brothers performed the last rites of Jatayu.

Ram and Lakshmana moved on and on in search of Sita and finally reached the Kronch Forest where a demon caught them.

Lakshmana said to Ram, “How shall we be safe from this dreadful demon, brother?”
Before Ram could answer, the demon opened his mouth wide to devour them up. Ram drew out his sword and cut off the hands of the demon. Then both the brothers attacked him, killed him and burnt him to ashes.

Amazingly enough ! a man emerged from the fire and said, “I am Kabandh. I had got changed to a dreadful demon under a curse. You have rid me of the curse. So, I must do something for you.”
“I’ll let you know the way to find out Sita. Please locate Sugreeva – the ruler of the Banaras. He will help you to locate and rescue Sita.” Saying so, Kabandh disappeared.

Both the brothers reached the western bank of the Pampa Lake. There they were received and entertained by a saintly old lady, Shabri by name. She was an old lady belonging to a jungle tribe. Seeing both the brothers coming towards her, she said, “My long –cherished desire is going to be fulfilled, Ram. I had been alive for this happy occasion only.” Saying so, she went into the forest to bring wild-berries for Ram and Lakshmana.

She came back soon with sweet berries. Giving them to both the brothers, she said, “Accept this humble fare, please. I have tasted them one by one. Not a single of them is sour. They are all very sweet.”

“These are the sweetest fruits on the earth, Lakshmana,” Saying so, Ram enjoyed them tastily though Lakshmana stealthily threw them away. Shabri breathed her last that very day.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

Seeing the inhabitants of Ayodhya following him, Ram sad to then with folded hands, “I implore you all to return to Ayodhya and extend your fullest co-operation to Bharata, your new king. It will prove your real affection for me.”

The people turned a deaf ear to what Ram had said. They kept following him at his heels. When they reached the bank of River Tamsa, darkness began to prevail. So, Sumant, the prime minister, stopped the chariot and decided to stay there for the night. All the people fell fast asleep soon due to fatigue and sorrow. When it was midnight, Ram said to Sumant, “Get the chariot ready. We must leave this place before these people get up otherwise they will never leave us.”

Sumant did as Ram had said and the chariot moved on with Ram, Lakshmana and Sita in it.

Travelling southwards, they crossed the Tamsa, the Ved Shruti and the Gomati and reached the southern boundary of the Kosala kingdom. Turning his face toward Ayodhya, Ram folded his hands and bowed his head in reverence saying, “I take leave of you, O Motherland. At the expiry of the period of exile, I shall again see you and my dear parents.”

Proceeding further, the chariot reached the northern bank of the Ganga. This region was under Nishadraj, the chief of the Nishads. He was a class-mate of Ram at Saint Vasishtha’s hermitage. When he came to know of Ram’s arrival, his joy knew no bounds. He collected his chiefs and said, “Have you heard that my friend as well as master- Ram – has come. Let us go and receive him with open arms. Even a glance cast at his face is sure to rid us of all our sins and difficulties.

Nishadraj went to receive Ram, Lakshmana and Sita. Then folding his hands he said, Let me know, Master, what can I do for you? Your visit had really made this place sacred and pious.”

“Your love has won me over. Do a favour to me as well. Arrange for a boat so that we may cross the Ganga and get to its southern bank.” Saying so, Ram embraced Nishadraj.

When the chief of the Nishads went away to arrange for a boat, Ram said to Sumant, “Sir, you must return to Ayodhya now as we shall begin our exile from here.”

“I cant dare to return to Ayodhya with my chariot empty. I have decided to stay in the forest and serve you day and night,” retorted Sumant.

“No, sir; You must go back and do two important jobs – to console my father and to assure Mother Kaikeyee that I have really started a forest life.”

When Sumant had proceeded back to Ayodhya, Ram came to the ferry but the boatman refused to carry him across the river. Folding his hands, he said, “My Lord! I have heard that the touch of your feet has a magical effect. Anything touching them turns into a woman. Is it true that a rock turned into a woman on touching your feet? My boat is made of wood only. If it changes into a woman, my family is sure to starve.”

Ram smiled and said, “How can your doubt be set at rest, friend? Let me know.”

“I won’t let you step into my boat until I wash your feet.” Retorted the boatman.

“All right; wash my feet and get us across at once,” said Ram.

The boatman washed Ram’s feet with the water of the Ganga.

Having set his doubt at rest, the boatman made Ram, Lakshmana and Sita sit in his boat and began to row it towards the other bank. Nishadraj was also in the boat at that time.

Reaching the other back, all the four got down. The boatman lay prostrate at Ram’s feet. Ram felt that he must pay the boatman his wages and so Sita took off her gold ring and handing it across to the boatman said, “Here is your wages.”

“I have already got it.” Saying so, the boatman folded his hands and said, “The wash of Lord Ram’s feet is much more than my wages. It has done away with all my sins, sorrow and difficulties. So, I don’t want anything now.”

Bidding farewell to the boatman, Rama worshipped Lord Shiva while Sita implored the Ganga, “Mother Ganga! Bless me so that all my desires are fulfilled.”

Ram, accompanied by his brother, wife and friend Nishadraj, crossed the dense forest and came to Prayag, a town at the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna. They visited the hermitage of Saint Bhardwaj who entertained them duly in every way. Then providing them seats to sit on, he said to Ram, “My meditation, seclusion and penance have attained completion today. My life has bloomed indeed to see you. No desire is left in my mind at all.

“He is really great and noble who is held in high esteem by you, A Saint!” Saying so, Ram implored, “Kindly suggest us some place where we can stay in peace.”

The saint said. “There is a hillock named Chitrakoot across the Yamuna. That place is full of flower-plants, fruit tress, springs, waterfalls and other beauties of nature. In my opinion that place is most suitable for you to stay.”

So, taking leave of Saint Bhardwaj, Ram proceeded to Chitrakoot.

Sumanta, on reaching Ayodhya, left the empty chariot outside the town. He dared not enter the town as if he had been guilty of murdering a Brahmana, a saint or a cow. He could not take courage to go into the capital during the daytime. So, he passed the day under a big tree and entered the town at night under the cover of darkness. Saving himself from the eyes of the people, he made for the royal palace and was directed to Queen Kaushalya’s apartment by a maid. There King Dashrath was smarting under the sorrow of separation from his dear son. Bowing low, he greeted the king.

The king asked him, “How is my Ram, O Sumant? Has he returned along with Sita and Lakshmana or not? IF not, make me reach there in the forest too, otherwise I shall certainly die.”

Hearing this, Sumant broke into tears and no words could come out of his throat.

Then seeing the king in untold sorrow, Sumant consoled him saying, “My Lord! You are a store-house of true knowledge and also rank among top warriors. Your patience is immense indeed which you have developed as a result of your company with great saints and hermits. Joy and sorrow, request you to have fortitude and say good-bye to all sorrow and worry.”

“You are right, dear. Everything is in the control of deeds and fate. My deed that earned the curse of the blind father of Shravana has borne fruit. Now I am fully convinced that I am fated to die of separation from my dear son.”

The king was, in fact, reminded of the curse inflicted on him by Shravana’s blind parents. Queen Kaushalya, on hearing about the curse, insisted on knowing the story about the curse and the king began to narrate it.

“One day I went out hunting into the Bets Forest. I sat on the branch of a tree that stood on the bank of a tank. It was a dark night. Shravana came to full his jug with water from the tank. As soon as he put his jug into water, a gargling sound was produced. I took this sound for that of a deer. I am expert in shooting arrows on sound, you know. So, I shot an arrow on the gargling sound. It hit Shravana and he fell down on the ground with a loud cry – Oh God. The cry startled me and I ran to where it had come from. Seeing Shravana in a critical condition, I felt very hurt and repentant as well.”

“Shravana said t o me, it is no time to feel sorry. My old and blind parents are very thirsty. I had come in search of water for them. Carry this water to them so that they may quench their thirst. Tell them the whole story when they have drunk the water. Saying so, Shravana breathed his last.”

“Taking the jug of water I went where the old couple was. I told them the entire story and asked them to drink water. But they refused to take it and began to bewail in sorrow. Then they asked me to prepare a pyre which I did. The old couple sat on the pyre with their dead son in their laps. At the same time, they uttered a curse on me, “Listen O King! You will also die of separation from your son as we are doing now.”

“At that time I had no son. So, I thought that the old couple had uttered a curse on me which will have no effect as I had no son then. But now when Ram, Lakshmana and Sita are away to the forest, I have been reminded of the curse. I love Ram more than I love my life. He is away and I cannot survive without him. Death is staring me in my face indeed.

Having narrated the story of the curse to the queen, the king called out to Ram in a loud voice and then breathed his last.

All the three queens sat bewailing and the entire royal palace was plunged into sorrow. Even servants and maids sat mourning for the departed king. The news of the king’s

Death spread like wild fire and the entire town of Ayodhya wore sorrowful look. People began to say, “The king was a storehouse of righteousness, noble qualities and justice. He is no more now.”

All the people began to curse Queen Kaikeyee. Some of them abused her too. But the king had left this immortal world in sorrow for his son.

The night passed off and at day-break Saint Vasishtha was informed of the king’s death.

Saint Vasishtha came running to the palace to the palace. He consoled the queens and the ministers with his religious sermons about death which is inevitable. Then he asked Sumant to put the kings body in a boat-like container filled with oil so that it should not decay.

Then Vasishtha sent for a messenger and asked him to go to Bharata who was with his mother’s parents. He advised him not to disclose the news of the king’s death there. He directed him to inform Bharata and Shatrughna that he (Vasishtha) had sent for them. He was sure they would rush to Ayodhya when they get this message.

So, the messenger left for the town where Queen Kaikeyee’s parents lived so that he might bring back the two princes.

Now listen about Bharata. He had been seeing ominous happenings since the things had started deteriorating at Ayodhya. So, his mind was always suspicious of some calamity to befall. He often saw bad dreams and so he meditated hard praying to the Almighty for the safety and happiness of all kith and kin. Just then, Vasishtha’s messenger reached there and conveyed the saint’s message that he wanted them both to rush to Ayodhya at their earliest.

So, Bharat took leave of his maternal grand-parents and after worshiping his gods he proceeded to Ayodhya in a chariot along with Shatrughna. Their minds were at Ayodhya now. They wished to fly to their home-town indeed.

When the two princes reached near Ayodhya, things did not appear well to them. Ominous things like howling of jackals, braying of asses and weeping of dogs happened. On entering the town, they found it plunged in sorrow. The people who came across their way, looked dejected. Everyone simply greeted them and went away without uttering a word.

Seeing everything against his expectations Bharata got suspicious and drove straight to his royal apartment. Then he asked his wife Mandavi “Is everything all right here?”

“See your mother first of all,” replied the prince-consort, “She must be eagerly waiting for you.” Saying so, Mandavi left the place and Bharata made for his mother’s palace.

Having known that Bharata had come, Kaikeyee came to the door of her palace to receive him delightfully in the proper religious way. Then he took her son inside her palace and asked, “Is everything all right there?”

“Yes, everything is all right there, But what about here? How is father and the other two queen-mothers. Are my elder brother and his wife Sita all right? Where is Lakshmana, my brother?” Bharata put a volley of questions to Kaikeyee so that he might know the reality.

Hearing her son’s queries, Kaikeyee filled her eyes with crocodile tears and said, “You know, it was I who safe-guarded your interests well in time. Manthra too helped me a lot in this task. But one sad thing happened that your father died suddenly.

Hearing about the death of his father, Bharata began to bewail bitterly. He asked his mother to explain how the death had occurred.

Kaikeyee told all the story to her son – how she had manipulated to get the throne for him and exile for Ram with Manthra’s help. Then she added, “My son! It does not become a king to shed tears. Be up and enjoy the comforts that God has showered on you.”

Bharata got enraged to hear the words of his mother and said, “You sinful lady! you have done irreparable harm to our family. Why didn’t you strangle me to death when I was born? I am ashamed of having you as my mother. A father like King Dashrath and brothers like Ram and Lakshmana – where shall I get them? I disown you as my mother.”

Just then, Manthra came there in her best clothes and ornaments. Shatrughna got enraged to see her and kicked her so hard at her back that she fell down on the ground. Her hunch broke and her head was also broken. She exclaimed in pain, “O God! Is this the repayment of my good done to Bharata?”

Leaving Kaikeyee’s palace, both the princes went to Queen Kaushalya’s palace. Seeing the king’s corpse there, they began to bewail bitterly.

Seeing the princes weeping bitterly, Saint Vasishtha said to Bharata, “Dear Bharat! Birth and death; joy and sorrow – all are natural laws. A person, who takes birth on this earth, must die one day. So, give up your sorrow and prepare for the funeral rites of the late king.”

“Yes sir,” said Bharata. He got up with a heavy heart and ordered Sumanta to make preparations for the last rites of the king.

The pyre was ready in no time and the last obsequies of King Dashrath were performed in keeping with the directions given on religious scriptures.

Now Bharata held his court where all the nobles and ministers were present along with Saint Vasishtha. Giving a sermon on the balance between religion and politics, Vasishtha said, “Bharat! What is to be, must be. Birth and death, gain and loss, fame and defame – are all in God’s hands. King Dashrath led a life full of luck and all comforts. Shed all sorrow and obey your father’s wishes. Accept the throne and serve your subjects.”

All the nobles and ministers too supported what Saint Vasishtha had said. Hearing these words Bharata said in a humble voice, “O Great Saint! You are our family preceptor. It is said that a king must be religious and honest. But as for me, I am a grave sinner. My father died because of me. My two brothers and sister-in-law had to go into exile only due to me. How can I accept this throne? It is Ram’s … and only he will mount it. This is my pledge.”

Taking the pledge to enthrone Ram, Bharata implored all present in the court, “IF you all have good wishes for the kingdom, you must help me fulfil my pledge. Let us all go to the forest and coronate Ram there itself and then we can prevail upon him to return to Ayodhya. I am sure, he will not kick me. He must accept my request.”

Everyone supported Bharata’s suggestion and so Sumanta made arrangements for the march to the forest just as Bharata had ordered.

Next day, Bharata left for the forest accompanied by his kith and kin, nobles, ministers, and Saint Vasishtha. Articles to be used for the coronation were also carried along.

King Janaka, Sita’s father, too joined Bharata in this great march along with his kith and kin and soldiers.

Ram, Lakshmana and Sita had started living in a hut at Chitrakoot. One day, all the three were sitting before the hut when they saw birds flying about hither and thither in fright. Ram said toLakshmana, “Birds are flying about in fright. Not only this, clouds of dust can also be seen rising in the horizon. Just watch what the matter is.”

Hearing this, Lakshmana climbed up a tall tree and watched carefully. Then he spoke in a voice full of suspicion, “Be ready, brother! After capturing the throne, Bharat is coming here with his army with a view to getting rid of us.”

“NO, never, Lakshmana; your doubt is unfounded. Bharat is very righteous. He cannot do like that Let him reach here and you will come to know of the reality,” said Rama serenely.

Having reached Chitrakoot, when Bharata came to know of Rama’s hut, he ran to embrace his brother. Seeing Bharata running bare-footed, Ran too ran towards him and said, “Dear brother! You … here! Is everything all right?”

“Dear brother!” Saying so Bharata embraced Rama. Seeing this, Lakshmana felt sorry for his suspicion. He said to himself, “How wrongly I assess things sometimes! Bharat loves Ram as dearly as I do.”

So, Lakshmana begged for Bharata’s pardon who embraced him too. Then paying his respects to Sita, Bharata expressed the purpose of his visit.

Just then came there all the three widowed queens. Seeing them in widows’ dresses, Rama began to bewail bitterly.

Bharata said to Rama, “Dear Father could not bear the sorrow of separation from you, brother. He breathed his last with your name on his lips. I was with my maternal parents at that time.”

“Oh Dear Father!” exclaimed Rama in sorrow and then said, “I hoped to return to Ayodhya at the expiry of the period of exile. But with dear father’s departure, my enthusiasm has disappeared.”

Then Saint Vasishtha advised Ram a lot and consoled him as well. So, Ram stood in waters of the Mandakini and offered oblations to the departed soul of his father saying, ”This pious water should ever keep reaching you.” Next day, Bharata placed before Ram the royal robe and other articles of coronation and said, “We have come to crown you king here.”

“I can never do so, dear brother,” retorted Ram.

“But why after all?” asked Bharata.

“Because I am bound by the boons given by dear father to Mother Kaikeyee,” replied Ram.

“If a person must live in exile for fourteen years to keep the boon of dear father, I am here to do it, “suggested Bharata.

“No, dear, Bharat, according to his boons, I am to live in exile while you are to mount the throne. So you must run the government till I am in exile,” argued Ram.

“All right; if this is your wish, I must run the administration but in your name only. These wooden shoes of yours will be placed on the throne as a token.” Saying so, Bharata returned to Ayodhya with Ram’s wooden shoes.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya

It plunged the king into deep thoughts and he felt as if his old age had been goading him saying, “The evening of your life has set in, O Great King! IT is high time for you to abdicate the throne and lead a life of renunciation and austerity so that you may be able to set your mind to meditation. Your son-Ram- is now capable of taking the reins of administration in his own hands. Moreover, he is popular with people and God-fearing too. You should crown him king in your place.”

Amidst these reflections, King Dashrath proceeded to the hermitage of Vasishtha, the family preceptor, with a view to seeking his advice on Ram’s coronation. Approaching him, he said, “I have come to seek your advice on a very important matter, O revered saint. I feel that Ran is by all means capable of shouldering the burden of the administration of my kingdom. Shouldn’t I get rid of all worldly responsibilities after handing over the throne to him and lead the remaining life in penance?

“What a splendid idea indeed! But any decision concerning the coronation can be taken only after consulting the nobles and other respectable persons of the kingdom,” retorted the saint. “It is by all means desirable. I would return to Ayodhya and convene a meeting of the courtiers to take a decision in the regard. I implore you to come and bless us all with your esteemed presence,” said the king.

The very next day, King Dashrath summoned a meeting of his nobles. Saint Vasishtha, too, was present there. The king addressed the courtiers and said, “I have been running the government of the kingdom in keeping with the traditions laid down by my revered forefathers as best as I was able to do. But I have grown old and so I want to put the responsibility of the state-affairs on the shoulders of Ram, my eldest son. This meeting has been convened to know the opinion of you all. If you feel it to be advisable and if you support my suggestion, I would declare Ram as my successor and he will be crowned king on an auspicious day.

We all second your decision, “O King.”

The royal preceptor-Vasishtha- also supported the decision saying that Ram was tolerant like the earth, wise like god Brihaspati and as brave as god Indra.

Having obtained the assent of his courtiers, King Dashrath sent of Ram and expressed his decision before him. He said, “My son! I am growing old and weak. I want you to shoulder the responsibilities of the state affairs now.”

“I bow to your will, O dear father,” replied Ram and he bowed low before the king who embraced him in affection. At the same time, the king requested saint Vasishtha to suggest an auspicious day for Ram’s coronation.

“The day after tomorrow is the most auspicious day for this purpose,” suggested saint Vasishtha who explained to the king how to perform the rites concerning the coronation. After this, the meeting dispersed amidst good wishes from all quarters

The news of declaration about Ram’s coronation spread like wild fire and the people of the town welcomed it raising slogans – Victory to Ram long live Ram. Whoever conveyed this happy news to the three queens of King Dashrath was awarded profusely by them. They were virtually beside themselves with joy. Sumitra, the middle queen distributed precious stones among workers of the palace while Kaushalya, the eldest queen gave lavish gifts to the Brahmans.

The king implored saint Vasishtha to go to Ram’s personal chamber and administer him proper instructions for the forth-coming event. Knowing that the royal preceptor has come; Rama cane out to welcome the saint and took him inside. He, along with his wife Sita, entertained the saint in the most befitting manner.

Rama requested saint Vasishtha with folded hands, “A master’s visit to his savant’s house is certainly a matter of great delight as it removes all his sorrows. Even then, O Great Saint! You could have sent for me and ordered me to fulfil your wish. Keeping your greatness aside, you have chosen to take the trouble of coming to me. What other favour can I expect from God? Your visit has sanctified my abode indeed and I am feeling awfully flattered. Order me your wish, sir, and I am here to carry it out. I am convinced that any thing done to please you will benefit me.”

Vasishtha said, “You know, Ram, that your father has declared you as his successor and the preparations for you coronation are going on. I advise you to exercise reservedness and self-control till the great event is over delightfully.” Saying so, the saint left for his hermitage.

Kaikeyee, the youngest queen of King Dashrath, also came to know of Ram’s forthcoming coronation through her main – Manthra. She felt highly delighted and giving her necklace to the maid, she said, “Here is your awarded for bringing the good news. How happy I am indeed!”

Wicked Manthra threw away the necklace and said, “This time is not to feel delighted for you, O Queen. In a few days, Ram will be enthroned king. But as for Bharata, he will be no better than a slave of the new king.”

“Then what! Ram is as dear to me as Bharata,” said Kaikeyee.

“How short-sighted your, O Queen! Why should they crown Ram king in the absence of Bharata?” retorted the maid.

When Ram comes to the throne, he will consider Bharata as an eyesore. In order to get rid of you son, Ram will either exile him or have him killed…,” the maid continued.

“No, never; Ram is not that type. I know him well. He loves Bharata most dearly,” argued Kaikeyee. But the maid went on with her wicked suggestions. She kept poisoning the queen’s ears. She said, “Kaushalya, not you, will be the Queen Mother after Ram’s coronation and you will have to obey her.” The maid’s words had the desired effect because Kaikeyee had always been jealous of Kaushalya. She said, “I agree to your suggestion.”

“Then you have to act wisely with a view to clearing the way for Bharata’s enthronement,” Manthra suggested further.

“But how? Will the King agree?” asked the queen.

“Why not, if you act wisely? Have you forgotten about the two boons that the king promised you?” reminded the maid.

“Oh yes! They can be immensely useful,” accepted the queen. She decided to act upon the maid’s counsel and went into her Protest Chamber where she lay in tears after casting off all her fineries.
When the king reached Kaikeyee’s apartment, he felt amazed to hear that she was in the Protest Chamber. At the same time, he was horrified to think of some forthcoming calamity. His feet staggered while approaching the offended queen to find her lying on the ground sobbing and shedding uncontrolled tears.

Seeing the queen in this miserably lustreless condition, the king felt as if the queen was rehearsing the forthcoming widowhood. Anyhow, he controlled himself and said, “Let me know the reason of your protest, O Queen. Has anybody offended you? I am ready to do what you desire. Say whether you want some beggar to be a master of riches or a millionaire to be a beggar and be exiled. Ram’s coronation is to take place the day after tomorrow. Get up and be cheered. IT is not desirable that you should pull a long face on an auspicious occasion.”

Hearing the king’s words, Kaikeyee trembled in fear at first. Then concealing her desire so cunningly, she smiled and got up. King Dashrath could not see through her trick, though he was a past master in politics. In fact, the character of a woman is such an unfathomed sea that no man can gauge its depth.

Kaikeyee spoke lovingly but cunningly, “Darling! You keep insisting on granting my wishes but never give me anything. Do you remember having promised me two boons!”

“Yes, I do. You never asked for your boons, So, I forgot about them.”

“All right! I’ll ask for them now,” retorted the queen.

“Without hesitation. We the descendants of Raghu, the Great, never go back on our promises, even if we have to stake our lives.”

Kaikeyee smiled and she said, “As the first boon, I ask for the throne for my don Bharata and as the second boon I would like Ram to be exiled for fourteen years.” These words of the queen proved like a bolt from the blue and the king turned pale to hear them.

The queen said, “Do you remember your battle with the demons. I was also with you. You fought bravely and killed a number of demons. But suddenly an arrow hit you and having been wounded, you fell down inside the chariot. Finding your life in danger, I drove the chariot out of the cordon of the enemy and brought you to safety. You promised me two boons at that time. I agreed to ask for these boons when I needed them. Now is the time for me to have my boons. If you believe in truth and honesty, you must agree to what I have asked for.

King Dashrath stood dumb like a statue gazing at Kaikeyee.

Seeing the king stunned and speechless, the queen said, “Is Bharata not your son? Am I not your legal wife?”

“Darling! Don’t speak words that hit at mutual love and are against the norms of behaviour. Both Bharat and Ram are my eyes. I’ll send for Bharata and Shatrughna through a messenger and crown your son Bharata King of Ayodhya. Ram has no longing for the throne. Say goodbye to your anger and get up cheerfully. I’ll make the arrangements for Bharata’s coronation in a few days,” said the king. Then touching the feet of Queen Kaikeyee, he said, “But take back your second boon as it is undesirable. Let me know Rama’s fault. He is no less than a saint.”

“However hard you may try, your trick cannot be successful. Either grant me my boons or earn defame for yourself and for your dynasty. I don’t like hypocrisy.” Retorted the queen sternly.

Preparations for Ram’s coronation had been complete now. All the nobles and ministers were present in the court. One of the nobles asked Sumant, the prime minister, “Sir, the preparations for the coronation have been done, but the king and his heir-apparent-Ram- are not seen anywhere. Where are they after all?”

“Let us hope that they are all right,” said another noble.

Then the minister said, “The auspicious moment for coronation is going to slip away. But our king has not turned up. Go and see what the matter is. What is the reason at this delay?” “All right; I am just going to Ram’s apartment to enquire into the matter.” Saying so, the prime minister made for the Ram’s palace.

When the prime minister reached Ram’s apartment, a messenger came there with a word from the king and said, “Victory to the heir-apparent! Your revered father, the king, wants to see you at once. He is in the palace of the youngest queen and wants you to be there.”

“Here I go.” Saying so, Ram spoke to Sita, “Darling! Mother Kaikeyee is very liberal and affectionate. She must be discussing my coronation in detail with dear father. That is why he has sent for me. I must be there in no time.” Saying so, Ram made for Kaikeyee’s palace. Sumant, the prime minister returned to the court.

When Ram got to Kaikeyee’s palace, he found his father plunged in worry and sorrow. Seeing mother Kaikeyee standing by in rage, he suspected something ominous and felt horrified. Bowing low in respect before both of them, Ram said, “Dear Mother! Let me know the reason for dear father’s sorrow so that I may do something to redress it.

“Ram! Your father promised me two boons which I have asked for. This is the only reason of his sorrow because the granting of these two boons will surely hurt you,” retorted the queen in a stern voice.

“Mother! Really lucky is the son who fulfills the wishes of his parents with devotion,: said Ram.

Saying so, Ram asked his mother Kaikeyee, “Mother! Be kind enough to let me know about those boons. I shall fulfil them even at the risk of my life.”

“Hear then, my first demand is that Bharata, my son, should be made king in your place. And my second demand is that you will have to go into exile for fourteen years,” said the queen.

Ram smiled and said, “I am ready to fulfil the boons given by my father, dear mother. It is all for my best, I shall have the chace to see a number of learned saints whose sermons will help me to exalt myself mentally as well as morally.” Then Ram went to his mother Kaushalya and told her of the boons granted to Kaikeyee but he king. Kaushalya felt upset to hear his son’s words. She burst into tears.

Lakshmana was also present there. When he came to know about the king’s boons, he turned red in rage and said, “It looks like our father has gone mad due to old age, otherwise he would not have deprived Ram of his rights and ordered him to go into exile. Brother! Declare yourself to be the King Ayodhya. Whoever dares to oppose you will be set right by me.”

“No, no, never; one must be patient on such a critical occasion. We must observe our duty towards our parents. Let us not take recourse to violence. It is shameful for me not to fulfil these boons,” said Ram.

“All right, I must go to the forest with you. I’ll kick a seat even in heaven without you, dear brother,” retorted Lakshmana.

“Most gladly, brother! Your company will be a solace indeed.” Saying so, Ram asked for his mother’s leave to proceed to the forest. Seeing her son’s firmness, Kaushalya said, “Son! Take me also with you to the forest if you cannot change your mind. Separation from a son is far more pinching than being without a son.”

Ram replied, “Mother! Dear father is in sorrow. If you leave him, he will surely die. You must stay here to console him. Bless me so that I may leave for the forest in peace.”

Kaushalya showered blessings on him, she bid him farewell saying, “Go my son! May the gods of hills, seas, rivers, sky, day and night protect you in the forest!”

Having taken leave of his mother Kaushalya, Ram came to his wife Sita and told her all that had happened. Sits said, “Darling! I too shall accompany you to the forest.”

Ram, Lakshmana and Sita went to Dashrath who tried to get up but fell down. So, Ram lifted him up in his arms and put him in the bed. Coming to himself, the king said, “Ram, Kaikeyee has taken me in. Take away all my belongings and my subjects with you. You will have your kingdom wherever you settle.”

“No, never, dear father. What for do I need money in the forest. Get me a saffron robe so that we may take leave of you.”

Hearing Ram’s words, Kaikeyee went in and soon came with three saffron robes for them. She said, “Here are the robes that you are to wear in the forest.

“Yes, dear mother.” Saying so, both the brother put on the new saffron robes. But Sita didn’t know how to wear her new dress. She said, “Dear mother! I don’t know how to have these clothes on. Kindly help me wear them.”

“Come on, dear. “Saying so, Manthra, the wicked maid, took Ram’s wife Sita inside the room and helped her wear the forest dress. This done, the three asked for the permission of Queen Kaikeyee and King Dashrath and they left the palace.

Ram, Lakshmana and Sita came out of the royal palace in the guise of saints and took their seats in the chariot. The king, stricken with grief remained speechless and kept gazing at the departing chariot. He said to himself, “How strange! The innocent are being punished for the faults of others.” Thinking so, he fell down unconscious once again. The thing that pinched him the most was Sita’s departure to the forest.

Everyone tried to dissuade Sita from going to the forest. She was reminded of comforts of the palace life in contrast to hardships of the forest life. But she did not budge an inch from her stand. The comforts or the royal life could not allure her to stay back. Also, the hardships of forest life could not desist her from accompanying her husband.

The people of Ayodhya, when the saw Ram leaving for the forest began to shed tears. One of them spoke while weeping bitterly, “Formerly Ram was followed by a four-winged army, but now only his brother and wife are going with him.”

“Did we make all preparations to banish our prince? Ram is righteous and gracious. How much self-control he has! Why has our king sent him into exile?” another noble expressed his doubts.

All present were gripped by sentiment. They spoke in one voice, “Let us all accompany our dear prince leaving our homes and hearths.” So, most of them began to follow the chariot that was taking the exiled dignitaries. The rest of the people returned to their homes in bitter tears.

Ramayan Series

Part-1: Childhood | Part-2 : Swayamvar | Part-3 : Dasharatha’s Promise | Part-4 : Vanvas | Part-5 : Sita Haran | Part-6 : Meeting Hanuman | Part-7 : Lanka Dahan | Part-8 : Lanka Yudh | Part-9 : Lanka Vijay | Part-10 : Ayodhya | Part-11 : Lav Kush | Part-12 : Ram Rajya